The Dallas Mavericks wrapped up their season in shocking and historic fashion. Following the blockbuster trade that sent Luka Doncic to the Los Angeles Lakers, the Mavericks unexpectedly landed the No. 1 overall pick in the NBA Draft lottery. With that selection, they’ll be able to select Cooper Flagg—a generational prospect who is expected to share the floor with Kyrie Irving in Dallas.
Irving, unfortunately, is expected to miss the start of the season as he recovers from a torn ACL. Despite that setback, Irving and Flagg already appear to have the foundation of a strong connection, something that could benefit their chemistry if they take the court together. Irving spoke about Flagg during a recent appearance on the NBA’s Future Starts Now broadcast.
“We definitely are connected. He’s a Duke Blue Devil,” Irving said. “I know he can deal with the pressure, and I’m looking forward to seeing a great season. Not only from him, but a lot of other young players that are here nationally and also internationally.”
While the two have yet to play a game together—and fans will have to wait for Irving’s return—early signs suggest that the synergy between them could be special. The Mavericks are banking on that partnership to help kickstart a new era and carry the franchise back into contention. Excitement is building throughout Dallas.
Cooper Flagg #2
Cooper Flagg is set to get an early look at his new team. According to ESPN insider Shams Charania, Flagg will make a private visit to the Mavericks’ facilities on June 17—just one week before the NBA Draft, where Dallas is expected to officially select him with the top pick.
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“Cooper Flagg plans to have a private visit with the Mavericks in Dallas on June 17, sources tell ESPN,” Charania reported on X (formerly Twitter). “One week after his first official Mavs visit, Flagg is set to be Dallas’ No. 1 pick in the NBA Draft on June 25.”
Flagg is widely regarded as the top overall talent in this year’s draft class, and his two-way abilities could elevate virtually any roster. While most No. 1 picks enter rebuilding situations, Flagg is stepping into a Mavericks team that—despite its turbulent offseason—is still viewed as a contender with the right pieces in place.
Although Anthony Davis is now seen as the focal point of the roster, the Mavericks boast a core filled with playoff-tested veterans and NBA Finals experience. Once Irving returns to full health, Dallas should have the tools to push for a postseason spot—depending, of course, on how quickly this revamped roster can gel to start the season.
