The Dallas Mavericks have always been a franchise willing to take bold risks in pursuit of long-term success. From drafting Luka Dončić to trading for Kyrie Irving, the front office has shown a willingness to make aggressive moves to build a contender. Now, with the potential addition of Cooper Flagg—a generational talent in the 2025 NBA Draft—the Mavericks could be on the verge of securing their future. But to maximize Flagg’s impact, Dallas might also look to bring back a former draft pick, creating a roster built for sustained excellence.
Cooper Flagg is the kind of prospect that comes around once in a decade. A 6’9″ forward with elite defensive instincts, a polished offensive game, and the versatility to play multiple positions, Flagg has drawn comparisons to Kevin Durant and Andrei Kirilenko for his two-way dominance. For a Mavericks team that has relied heavily on Dončić’s brilliance, adding Flagg would provide the perfect complementary star—a player who can defend at an elite level while also contributing offensively without needing the ball in his hands constantly.
However, the Mavericks’ path to contention doesn’t end with Flagg. To truly build a dynasty, Dallas must surround its young core with the right supporting pieces. One intriguing option could be reuniting with a former draft pick who never quite got a fair shot with the team. Players like Tyrell Terry (selected 31st in 2020) or Jaden Hardy (a second-round pick in 2022) could be reacquired to fill specific roles. Terry, now a reliable three-point shooter and playmaker, could thrive as a backup guard, while Hardy’s scoring punch off the bench would add much-needed depth.
Another name to watch is Josh Green, who was traded away in a previous deal but has since developed into a strong two-way wing. Bringing him back would give the Mavericks a versatile defender and capable shooter, further bolstering their rotation. The key for Dallas is finding players who fit seamlessly alongside Dončić, Irving (if he remains with the team), and Flagg—athletes who can defend, space the floor, and make quick decisions.
The Mavericks’ front office has also shown a willingness to explore the trade market for undervalued talent. A player like Jonathan Kuminga, who was once linked to Dallas in draft rumors, could be an ideal target. His athleticism and defensive versatility would make him an excellent fit next to Flagg, forming a dynamic forward duo capable of switching across multiple positions. Alternatively, Dallas could pursue a veteran big man to anchor the defense, allowing Flagg to roam as a weak-side shot-blocker.
Of course, none of this matters if the Mavericks don’t secure Cooper Flagg in the first place. With the 2025 draft lottery looming, Dallas will need some luck to land the No. 1 pick. But if they do, the franchise will have a rare opportunity to reshape its future. Flagg’s arrival would signal a new era—one where the Mavericks transition from a team built around Dončić’s brilliance to a balanced, deep roster capable of contending for years.
The final piece of the puzzle is coaching. Jason Kidd has done an admirable job managing egos and maximizing talent, but developing Flagg and integrating him into a winning system will be crucial. The Mavericks must ensure their staff is equipped to nurture his growth, just as they did with Dončić. If everything falls into place—Flagg’s selection, strategic roster additions, and strong coaching—Dallas could emerge as the NBA’s next superteam.
In the end, the Mavericks’ quest for long-term success hinges on more than just Cooper Flagg. It’s about building the right ecosystem around him. By bringing back a former draft pick or making savvy trades, Dallas can create a roster that not only competes for championships but sustains excellence for the next decade. The pieces are there—now it’s up to the front office to put them all together.
