The Dallas Mavericks’ surprising lottery win to secure the No. 1 pick has dramatically reshaped their offseason outlook. But with high expectations and aging stars on the roster, analysts are questioning whether drafting Cooper Flagg is the right move—or if the team should make a blockbuster trade for a proven superstar.
On Inside the NBA, Charles Barkley floated a bold idea: trade the top pick and go all in for Giannis Antetokounmpo, pairing him with Anthony Davis and Kyrie Irving. Barkley raised concerns about the durability of both Davis and Irving and questioned whether Flagg, despite his talent, could immediately elevate the team to title contention. “If you give me AD, Giannis, and then Kyrie comes in later, we got a better team,” Barkley argued.
Flagg, while seen as a future franchise player, will take time to reach his full potential. And with Davis’ recurring injuries and Irving’s projected absence for part of next season, some believe Dallas needs to win now—especially with Luka Dončić still in his prime.
However, ESPN insider Tim MacMahon doesn’t see Mavericks GM Nico Harrison taking that route. He doubts a Giannis trade is realistic, but acknowledges that major changes are still necessary. “This roster currently doesn’t make sense,” MacMahon said. He suggested that instead of making a massive move for a superstar, Dallas could benefit more by acquiring a veteran playmaker to complement Flagg and stabilize the offense.
MacMahon mentioned names like Dennis Schroder and Tyus Jones as ideal additions. With someone to initiate plays and support Dončić, Davis, and potentially Flagg, the Mavericks could become a more balanced and dangerous team.
Schroder’s contract and age might be hurdles, but his experience makes him an appealing target. Tyus Jones, younger and more affordable, presents a valuable alternative. Either could fill the void in Dallas’ backcourt and allow the team to develop Flagg without compromising short-term ambitions.
The Mavericks face a critical decision: trade Flagg for immediate success, or commit to his development and build around a long-term vision. Both paths come with risk—and potentially massive rewards.