2025 draft thread: THE MAVS SELECT COOPER FLAGG

[SleepingHero]

@DraftExpress
Wow! How crazy was that. Cooper Flagg to Dallas, with a whole lot of shot-creation responsibility that should give him a huge platform to hit the ground running.

New mock draft projection with all 59 picks coming out momentarily on ESPN.

1. Dallas Mavericks

Cooper Flagg, SF/PF, Duke
Freshman | TS%: 60.0

Scouting report: Flagg's spot as the consensus No. 1 pick was well-earned over the course of a stellar freshman season that ranks among the best in the one-and-done era. He compares favorably with the best college wings of this era from a statistical perspective, bolstered by his consistency and ability to lead Duke's young team.

Some NBA scouts project Flagg as a bona fide franchise player, while others wonder if he might be more of an elite second star. But that grand level of conjecture supports his case as the top player in this class. His rapid improvement, versatile two-way impact, unusual focus and competitive wiring at 18 years old make him a special prospect. -- Woo

NBA intel and fit: Winning the lottery with just 1.8% odds is a seismic, improbable victory for the Mavericks, who will have an easy decision to make with the addition of Flagg. Dallas has been intent on maximizing its current window as Anthony Davis and Kyrie Irving approach their mid-30s, and Flagg's readiness and versatility alongside them should immediately bolster their lineup. With Irving recovering from an ACL injury, Flagg may enter the league with significant shot-creation duties handling the ball, giving him a terrific opportunity to stretch himself as a playmaker and potentially blossom into an offensive star. This outcome significantly changes the fate of the Mavericks, who were staring down limbo after trading away superstar Luka Doncic and seemingly shortening their window to compete for titles. -- Woo