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3d ago

Cooper Flagg’s Fast-Track in Dallas Takes Shape as Guard Search Intensifies

Analysts tout an immediate impact for the No. 1 pick, spotlighting Dallas’s need for another ball-handler during Kyrie Irving’s ACL recovery.

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Cooper Flagg #32 of the Dallas Mavericks poses for a portrait during the 2025 NBA Rookie Photo Shoot at UNLV on July 15, 2025 in Las Vegas, Nevada.
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Apr 5, 2025; San Antonio, TX, USA; Duke Blue Devils forward Cooper Flagg (2) shoots a free throw against the Houston Cougars during the second half in the semifinals of the men's Final Four of the 2025 NCAA Tournament at the Alamodome. Mandatory Credit: Bob Donnan-Imagn Images

Overview

  • ESPN analysts ranked Cooper Flagg among the top newcomers for 2025–26, with Kevin Pelton noting his well-rounded game could help drive Dallas’s offense early while Irving remains out.
  • Depth-chart projections have Flagg starting on the wing, with reports listing likely veterans around him and emphasizing his chance to contribute from day one.
  • Flagg has been using NBA 2K26 to study his fit with teammates, according to 2K’s Ronnie Singh, after a two-game Summer League showing that featured 20.5 points, 5.0 rebounds and 2.5 assists per game.
  • Trade chatter continues around Trae Young as ESPN’s Tim MacMahon described his Atlanta future as murky, leading to external speculation about Dallas as a potential suitor and questions about cost and fit.
  • Austin Reaves surfaced in a Bleacher Report trade idea involving Dereck Lively II and Caleb Martin, and separate reporting linked Dallas to Bulls guard Coby White as the team weighs backcourt options.