Mavericks Lean Into Cooper Flagg’s Versatility With Guard/Forward Listing

The Mavericks’ website now lists Cooper Flagg as a guard/forward, a detail flagged by beat reporter Mike Curtis, though the team has not committed to a permanent backcourt role. Irving’s ACL recovery is expected to keep him out until around January 2026, a timeline that media analyses link to Dallas testing Flagg in guard duties early in the season. Flagg’s fit heightens roster pressure, with analysts highlighting a $14.15 million expiring year for P.J. Washington and questioning his role, extension prospects, or trade value. Dallas faces a consequential choice at center between Dereck Lively II and Daniel Gafford, with some arguing Lively should start to build long-term chemistry with Flagg. High-profile voices, including Blake Griffin, tout Flagg as an unusually complete rookie and a Rookie of the Year favorite, while outside proposals suggest guard upgrades such as Jordan Hawkins or Jaden Ivey remain speculative.

Particle.news