The Dallas Mavericks appear set to select Cooper Flagg with the first overall pick in the 2025 NBA Draft.
Recent developments suggest the Mavericks has moved past trade rumors involving superstars like Giannis Antetokounmpo.
Coach Jason Kidd’s reaction to Flagg’s workout strengthened the team’s conviction. The Duke prospect impressed the Mavericks’ coaching staff during his visit to Dallas facilities.
Jason Kidd draws historic comparison for Cooper Flagg
Tim MacMahon, who covers Dallas for ESPN, revealed Kidd’s evaluation of Flagg. The veteran coach sees similarities between the Duke forward and a legendary player from his own era.
“This is not a workout in the sense of an evaluation or a tryout. This is a get-to-know-you, check out our facilities, this is going to be your locker… Obviously, they’re excited about Cooper Flagg,” MacMahon explained.
Kidd specifically compared Flagg to Grant Hill, his co-Rookie of the Year winner from 1995. Both players share Duke connections and versatile skill sets that impressed the Mavericks coach.
“There’s a buzz about Cooper Flagg. I’m told Jason Kidd sees shades of another Duke guy in Cooper Flagg, a guy who J Kidd shared the Rookie of the Year with, Grant Hill,” MacMahon noted.
Photo by Christian Petersen/Getty ImagesGrant Hill’s elite legacy
Hill established himself among the NBA’s premier talents during his career. The seven-time All-Star not only earned Rookie of the Year honors alongside Kidd in 1995.
Hill’s accolades include one All-NBA First Team selection and four Second Team appearances. His point-forward abilities drew comparisons to Michael Jordan during his prime years.
The former Duke star excelled at creating plays while scoring efficiently. Hill’s versatility made him one of the league’s most valuable players before injuries derailed his peak years.
Point forward role a la Hill and Michael Jordan awaits Flagg
Kidd envisions utilizing Flagg in a similar capacity to Hill’s prime role. The rookie would handle significant ball-handling responsibilities and initiate offensive sets.
Dallas plans to maximize Flagg’s impact early in the season. Kyrie Irving’s expected absence creates immediate opportunities for the teenage prospect.
“Cooper Flagg is really going to have a chance, especially early in the season when Kyrie Irving is out, to play a point forward type of game. J Kidd thinks he can facilitate and be a ball-in-hand primary guy offensively as a teenage rookie,” MacMahon revealed.
Flagg’s college record-breaking performances support Kidd’s confidence in his abilities. The coaching staff appears ready to trust the rookie with significant responsibilities from day one.