Flagg at the Center: Could the Mavericks Be Tempted to Trade the No. 1 Pick?
As the 2025 NBA Draft approaches, one name looms largest over the basketball world — Cooper Flagg. The 6-foot-9 Duke phenom is the projected No. 1 overall pick, and the Dallas Mavericks hold the golden ticket. Despite public declarations from team brass that they have no intention of trading away the top pick, the very nature of the NBA forces one to ask the question: What if the right deal came along?
A Franchise Cornerstone in Waiting
Cooper Flagg has been the consensus No. 1 pick for over a year now. With his elite two-way skill set, high basketball IQ, and positional versatility, Flagg is seen by many as a franchise-altering player. For Dallas, which already boasts a formidable core of Luka Dončić, Anthony Davis, and Kyrie Irving (currently recovering from a torn ACL), adding a talent like Flagg could be the piece that pushes them into perennial championship contention.
Yet, with great value comes great temptation.
Why Dallas Might Just Listen
General Manager Nico Harrison and Governor Patrick Dumont have both been adamant: Cooper Flagg is untouchable. But in a league where generational players rarely stay long without success and roster stability, no one is ever truly off the table.
The Mavericks, sitting $17 million over the luxury tax and above both salary cap aprons, are in a financial tightrope walk. With three tradeable first-round picks (including the Lakers’ unprotected 2029 pick) and a number of solid contract pieces — Klay Thompson, P.J. Washington, and Daniel Gafford among them — the front office does have the assets to reshape their roster dramatically, should they choose to.
The Hypothetical Deals That Could Make Dallas Pause
So, what kind of deal could make the Mavericks even consider trading Flagg?
One scenario includes Milwaukee’s Giannis Antetokounmpo, still one of the game’s most dominant forces. A package built around Giannis, perhaps involving additional draft capital or expiring deals, might force Dallas to evaluate short-term title prospects versus long-term sustainability. Giannis is under contract for two more years — a window that might align perfectly with Dallas’ current roster timeline.
Another possibility? A team like the Boston Celtics, should they come up short again in the playoffs, might look to reset while still contending. Could they offer a package involving Jayson Tatum or Jaylen Brown, plus picks, to lure Flagg into the fold? Stranger things have happened in NBA history.
Even the Golden State Warriors could stir the pot if they look to turn their aging core into future gold. Imagine a deal involving Jonathan Kuminga, Moses Moody, multiple picks, and cap relief — it’s not a perfect match, but it’s food for thought.
The Case to Stand Pat
Still, for all the hypothetical intrigue, standing firm might be the smartest move for Dallas. Cooper Flagg is not just a “prospect” — he’s potentially the next face of the league. His ability to fit seamlessly alongside ball-dominant stars like Luka Dončić makes him an ideal puzzle piece for a team looking to contend now and in the future.
Pairing a young, athletic forward who defends multiple positions with two generational playmakers gives Dallas a rare balance of youth and experience. Not to mention, Flagg’s rookie-scale contract offers financial flexibility, something Dallas desperately needs while operating over the tax.
Final Thoughts
Dallas fans may not need to worry. As of today, the Mavericks aren’t picking up the phone when other teams come calling about the No. 1 pick. But in the NBA, loyalty only runs so deep — and if the right offer hits the table, even Cooper Flagg could be part of a blockbuster that shakes the league.
Until then, the Mavs are playing their cards close to the chest, and the world is watching.
Flagg is coming — unless someone offers the moon.
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