Cooper Flagg, the highly anticipated No. 1 overall pick in the 2025 NBA Draft, is already making waves among Dallas Mavericks fans. His recent offseason workout video showcased impressive ball-handling skills that have drawn comparisons to NBA superstar Kyrie Irving, igniting excitement about Flagg’s potential to become a standout player in the league.
Fans were quick to express their enthusiasm on social media, with one user exclaiming, “Dawg, we really just drafted a 6’10 Kyrie Irving!” Another added, “Cooper Flagg is the next Kobe Bryant.” These comparisons are particularly timely as the Mavericks gear up for the 2025-26 season amid concerns about Irving’s fitness following an ACL tear in March. Flagg’s emergence could provide the Mavericks with a much-needed boost as they navigate the challenges ahead.
Standing at 6-foot-10 with guard-like ball control, Flagg’s versatile skill set has Mavericks supporters buzzing. His ability to handle the ball and create plays positions him as a secondary playmaker, a role that few rookies are afforded. With the addition of veteran D’Angelo Russell to the team, Flagg will have the opportunity to learn from experienced players while also showcasing his own talents.
The excitement surrounding Flagg is further amplified by the prospect of him playing alongside established stars like Anthony Davis. This unique opportunity allows Flagg to contribute immediately to a team that is poised to contend for a championship. The combination of Flagg’s skill set and the support of his teammates sets the stage for a promising rookie season.
However, not all the news is entirely positive. Analysts and insiders are already speculating about Flagg’s long-term future with the Mavericks. A recent poll revealed that 53.8% of NBA insiders believe Flagg will play for at least two teams during his career, with 34.6% predicting he may suit up for three or more. This sentiment echoes the recent departure of Mavericks legend Luka Doncic, which has left fans wary of player loyalty in today’s NBA.
ESPN’s Zach Kram noted that while Dirk Nowitzki spent his entire 21-year career with the Mavericks, such loyalty is becoming increasingly rare. He emphasized the importance of the Mavericks working to retain Flagg, especially in light of the fanbase’s discontent following Doncic’s exit. Kram cautioned, however, that predicting a player’s long-term commitment to a single franchise in the modern NBA is a challenging task.
In an era where only a handful of stars, like Stephen Curry and Giannis Antetokounmpo, have remained with one team throughout their careers, the landscape is rapidly changing. Even LeBron James, who was drafted by the Cleveland Cavaliers, left for the Miami Heat in pursuit of championships. This trend raises questions about the future of young talents like Flagg and their potential to stay with a single team.
Despite these uncertainties, the Mavericks and their fans are focused on the immediate future and the promise that Cooper Flagg brings to the franchise. As the team prepares for the upcoming season, Flagg’s debut is eagerly anticipated, and the buzz surrounding his potential is palpable. With the right support and opportunities, Flagg could emerge as a key player for the Mavericks, helping to shape the team’s future in the competitive landscape of the NBA.