CBS Sports’ post-lottery 2025 NBA mock draft projects Cooper Flagg to the Dallas Mavericks, highlighting his elite two-way potential and franchise-changing upside.

The 2025 NBA Draft is poised to be a transformative event, with the Dallas Mavericks securing the No. 1 overall pick following a stunning lottery outcome. This unexpected turn of events has set the stage for a potential franchise-altering selection: Cooper Flagg, the consensus top prospect in the draft, is projected to join the Mavericks, bringing with him a blend of elite two-way potential and a winning mentality that could reshape the team’s future.

Cooper Flagg: A Phenomenal Talent

Cooper Flagg, standing at 6’9″ and weighing 225 pounds, has been a standout figure in basketball since his high school days in Newport, Maine. After transferring to Montverde Academy in Florida, Flagg’s prowess on the court became undeniable. His accolades include being named the National High School Player of the Year in 2024 and earning a spot as a McDonald’s All-American. Transitioning to Duke University, Flagg continued to impress, securing the ACC Player of the Year award and the Lute Olson Award as the nation’s top college basketball player in 2025 .

Flagg’s game is characterized by his versatility, basketball IQ, and defensive prowess. His ability to impact both ends of the floor makes him a rare talent, drawing comparisons to some of the game’s greats. His potential to be a cornerstone player for any franchise is evident, and the Mavericks are in a prime position to harness his abilities.

The Dallas Mavericks: A Team in Transition

The Mavericks’ journey to the top pick has been unconventional. In February 2025, the team made a high-profile trade, sending Luka Dončić to the Los Angeles Lakers in exchange for Anthony Davis. This move was met with widespread criticism and skepticism, as Dončić had been the face of the franchise and a perennial MVP candidate. However, the Mavericks’ front office cited a desire to improve the team’s defensive capabilities and address concerns regarding Dončić’s conditioning and salary .

Despite the controversy surrounding the trade, the Mavericks’ acquisition of Davis has brought a defensive presence to the team. Pairing Davis with Flagg could create one of the most formidable defensive duos in the league, setting the foundation for a new era in Dallas.

The Fit: Flagg and the Mavericks

Integrating Flagg into the Mavericks’ lineup presents an exciting prospect. His defensive versatility allows him to guard multiple positions, complementing Davis’s interior presence. Offensively, Flagg’s ability to stretch the floor and make plays will provide the Mavericks with a dynamic scoring option alongside Davis.

Moreover, Flagg’s competitive nature and leadership qualities align with the Mavericks’ aspirations to build a championship-contending team. His experience in high-pressure situations, including leading Duke to an ACC title, will be invaluable as he transitions to the NBA.

Implications for the NBA Landscape

Flagg’s selection by the Mavericks could have ripple effects throughout the league. His arrival in Dallas would not only bolster the Mavericks’ roster but also signal a shift in the balance of power within the Western Conference. Teams will be closely monitoring how Flagg’s integration impacts the Mavericks’ performance, especially in the context of their recent roster changes.

Additionally, Flagg’s presence in Dallas could influence other franchises’ strategies in the draft and free agency. The emphasis on acquiring versatile, two-way players like Flagg may become more pronounced, reshaping team-building philosophies across the league.

The 2025 NBA Draft is set to be a landmark event, with Cooper Flagg’s potential selection by the Dallas Mavericks marking a pivotal moment in the franchise’s history. As the draft approaches, all eyes will be on how Flagg’s integration into the Mavericks’ system unfolds and what it means for the future of the team and the league at large. The combination of Flagg’s exceptional talent and the Mavericks’ strategic vision could usher in a new era of success in Dallas.