Mavericks are a perfect fit for Cooper Flagg for one key reason, says coach Jason Kidd

Cooper Flagg is unquestionably the most exciting player in the 2025 NBA Draft class. For months, analysts have pointed to the Duke star as the likely No. 1 overall selection — a scenario that has seemed inevitable since the Dallas Mavericks publicly expressed their interest in adding Flagg to their roster. Now, Jason Kidd has opened up about what the franchise can offer the young talent.

“I think this is a great situation for him. When you talk about different guys that we have already on the team, the pressure of living up to the No.1 will be a lot easier with the talent around him,” Kidd said during an interview on The Dan Patrick Show, making it clear that, in his view, the Mavericks have plenty to offer Flagg.

“Being able to have older players –and when I say that, out of respect, they’re not dinosaurs– but when you look at the age of 30, Kai (Kyrie Irving), AD (Anthony Davis), Klay (Thompson), can definitely help him with the process of going through a rookie season,” the Mavericks coach added.

“When you talk about the other clubs, he would have to, you know, produce right away on a high, high level,” Kidd noted as a contrast. “So, I think this is a great situation for him to grow his game, where the pressure isn’t as high. But, we are playing for a championship, so it will be a lot of fun.”

Cooper Flagg #51 looks on during the 2025 NBA Draft Combine at Wintrust Arena

Jason Kidd has high hopes for Flagg

While Kidd confirmed that both he and the organization intend to target Flagg, he remained cautious. “I have not spoken to Cooper Flagg. I don’t want to break any of the rules and get us in trouble,” he explained, though he didn’t shy away from discussing the subject further.

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In particular, Kidd emphasized Flagg’s youth. “He’s gonna be drafted, he’ll be 18 and he doesn’t turn 19 until December,” said the coach, before highlighting Flagg’s attributes. “Just understanding he’s young but he’s really talented, can play both ends.”

The Hall of Famer was also candid about the expectations he has for Cooper. “We’re excited about the kid at Duke. I can’t wait to talk to the coach over there, coach (Jon) Scheyer, and also a good friend of mine, coach K (Mike Krzyzewski), a mentor, and get some background on the kid at Duke. Really excited about this opportunity,” he said.

What should the Mavs expect from Flagg?

With the NBA Draft just over a month away, anticipation is building around the new stars set to enter the league next season. In that context, former Duke coach Mike Krzyzewski weighed in on Cooper Flagg and the comparisons being made to Jayson Tatum.

“I think they’re two different players,” said the three-time Olympic gold medalist with Team USA. “Cooper is just unique… When you add his athletic ability and his competitive attitude, you have a very special guy. I think he’s a good shooter, trying to become a really good shooter. Jayson is that shooter.”