Mavericks Set to Build Around Cooper Flagg

Cooper Flagg, a standout Duke freshman and consensus No. 1 pick in the 2025 NBA Draft, is widely expected to be selected by the Dallas Mavericks following their lottery win and trade of Luka Doncic. Flagg averaged 19.2 points, 7.5 rebounds, and 4.2 assists during his collegiate season, drawing both high praise and skepticism from NBA legends like Carmelo Anthony and Tony Allen. Anthony acknowledged Flagg's versatile game but pointed out his need for a signature move, while Allen compared him more to Andrei Kirilenko than Kevin Durant, predicting a solid career rather than superstardom. Most analysts agree that Flagg's defense, shooting, and maturity make him a rare NBA prospect. Mavericks coach Jason Kidd has confirmed plans to build around Flagg, joining him with veterans Anthony Davis and Klay Thompson. Despite rumors of possible draft-day trades, current reports indicate Dallas intends to keep the pick and establish Flagg as their new franchise cornerstone.