The Dallas Mavericks were blessed with the No. 1 overall pick in the 2025 NBA Draft.
It was indeed a blessing post the Luka Doncic trade fiasco as the Dallas Mavericks fanbase turned on the franchise.
With the top pick in the 2025 NBA Draft, the Mavs had an easy decision to make – select Duke Blue Devil’s Cooper Flagg.
It was arguably the easiest decision of the draft as the Mavs now have a potential generational superstar on the roster. With that said, is there any player that Flagg can be compared to?
Photo by TIMOTHY A. CLARY/AFP via Getty ImagesPJ Washington drops ‘generational player’ praise on Cooper Flagg
When fans talk about generational stars, fans often think of the likes of LeBron James and Stephen Curry.
They are one-of-a-kind superstars that could hardly be compared to their predecessors. Keeping that in mind, Mavericks’ PJ Washington believes Flagg belongs in the same category.
“One of a kind. Honestly, I think it’s kind of odd to try and compare him. He can pretty much do everything at an elite level. At his age, that’s what separates him,” Washington told DJ Siddiqi of RG.
For context, Flagg is just 18 years old and his listed position is small forward. But according to Washington, Flagg isn’t restricted to his position.
“He has great length, he’s tall, and he can play both ends of the floor—obviously what you want. I just think he’s a generational player,” he added.
Flagg averaged 19.2 points, 7.5 rebounds, and 4.2 assists per game while shooting 48.1% from the field and 38.5% from the three-point in the NCAA.
If he can translate these numbers into the NBA during his rookie year, Washington’s point will be proven.
Cooper Flagg has a chance to do ‘something special’ in Dallas, says PJ Washington
Photo by Michael Reaves/Getty Images
The 2024-25 NBA season was a forgettable campaign for the Mavs. After all, not only did they face major flak for trading Doncic for Anthony Davis, the organization also missed the postseason.
But with Flagg on the roster for the upcoming season, Washington is confident that the Mavericks will do something special.
“I think Cooper’s very good. I think he’s a really good player. Obviously, he’s going to have a chance to be something really special here in Dallas,” Washington continued.
“I’m super glad because he has the opportunity to play with Kyrie, A.D. and the rest of the guys. Everybody’s excited—the whole city is excited—and we can’t wait to get him here,” he concluded.
It will be interesting to see what the Mavericks will achieve with Flagg on the roster. Moreover, head coach Jason Kidd already hinted at Flagg being the team’s point guard next season.
So, that will solve the team’s issues at the point guard position due to Kyrie Irving recovering from a torn ACL injury.