Since the Mavericks unexpectedly landed the No. 1 pick in Monday night’s draft lottery, rumors have swirled about the team possibly using it in a trade for a proven superstar like Giannis Antetokounmpo — especially given the front office’s history of bold moves.
But that’s not the direction Dallas plans to take, according to ESPN’s Tim MacMahon, who reports that the Mavericks intend to use the top pick to select consensus No. 1 prospect Cooper Flagg. A source echoed the same sentiment to Marc Stein, stating the team has no interest in trading the pick.
MacMahon notes that team governor Patrick Dumont views landing Flagg as a “gift” and has no intention of giving it away. While general manager Nico Harrison has freedom to make basketball decisions, Dumont retains final authority, and the plan is firmly to keep the pick.
MacMahon also highlights that Dallas’ controversial decision to trade Luka Dončić to the Lakers in February raised serious business and basketball concerns, especially with the team having no control over its first-round picks from 2027 to 2030. Bringing in a talent like Flagg could help stabilize the franchise’s future on both fronts.
Flagg is set to join a Mavericks core that includes Anthony Davis, Kyrie Irving, Dereck Lively, and P.J. Washington. However, the roster still has significant holes to address this offseason. With Irving sidelined for much of the upcoming season due to an ACL tear, the Mavs are expected to prioritize adding depth in the backcourt, particularly in ball-handling and playmaking roles.
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