Dallas Mavericks predicted starting lineup and depth chart after Cooper Flagg pick becomes official
The Dallas Mavericks officially selected Cooper Flagg as the No. 1 pick on Wednesday at the 2025 NBA draft. There were no surprises about their selection, considering Flagg is widely viewed as a generational talent. He now joins former NBA champions like Kyrie Irving and Anthony Davis in Dallas on a team where he could make an instant impact and learn closely about winning basketball.
Here's how the Mavericks' starting lineup and depth chart could look after the Cooper Flagg selection:
Flagg could get into the starting lineup in P.J. Washington's place, who could be on the trade block. The Mavericks won't likely match Washington's price in free agency next year. His expiring contract and need at other positions make him expendable.
Cooper Flagg on playing under Dallas Mavericks head coach Jason Kidd
Cooper Flagg will get to begin his career under the coaching of NBA legend Jason Kidd; that seems to be the case for now, at least. Kidd is on the New York Knicks' radar, and there are rumors that the interest could be mutual. Flagg reacted to it after his move to Dallas was official, saying:
"I haven't had those conversations yet, at all, but I think talking with coach Kidd, you know after my workout, even after I got picked up he was on the phone for a minute. I think he's just excited. I think he has a great vision for me on what I can do and how I can impact the game, so I'm excited just to talk to him."
Flagg's comments and Kidd's involvement in the draft process seem like the one-time NBA finalist coach is staying put in Dallas, where he's under contract for multiple years.
Flagg will likely have a significant role as one of the shot creators, especially until Kyrie Irving returns. The Mavericks are expected to make a stopgap addition at point guard until Irving's back and avoid putting too much pressure on Flagg in his rookie year to create for himself and others.