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Cooper Flagg warned about ‘really frustrating’ season with Dallas Mavericks, ‘that’s just disappointing to me’

Originally posted on NBA Analysis Network
By Bergas Agung | Last updated Sep 22, 2025 7:00 AM ET

Not everyone reacted with excitement toward Cooper Flagg’s NBA debut, with some expressing genuine concern about his situation.

The number one pick, labeled as generational talent, will begin his career in just 30 days when the new NBA season starts.

His debut will likely come against the San Antonio Spurs on October 23rd, generating significant spotlight for the highly anticipated rookie.

Cooper Flagg joins the Dallas Mavericks at a time when the franchise desperately needs someone to fill the void left by Luka Doncic’s departure.

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Kevin O’Connor believes the Mavericks’ lack of identity could have a negative impact on Cooper Flagg

NBA analyst Kevin O’Connor expressed particular concern about Flagg’s circumstances entering the league.

The Mavericks lost their organizational identity after trading Doncic to the Los Angeles Lakers, with many fans abandoning the franchise in disappointment.

“When Cooper Flagg was drafted to Dallas, my first instinct was like, ‘Wow, this sucks for him,'” O’Connor explained.

“He’s going into a team that their fans have left the franchise, that they feel betrayed after trading Luka, the immense expectations for you in a situation that is trying to win, but I don’t think that’s realistic.”

The analyst believes the franchise’s current state creates unrealistic pressure for the rookie to immediately transform the organization’s fortunes.

“I think it’s going to get really frustrating for the Dallas Mavericks fans this year, and for Cooper, I wish he were on a team where they had a clear identity. This team does not. And that’s just disappointing to me. For a guy who is an unbelievable young player and unbelievable prospect,” O’Connor added.

Veteran presence provides counterargument to Kevin O’Connor’s concerns about Dallas Mavericks situation

Doncic’s trade fundamentally altered the Mavericks’ trajectory, removing the franchise cornerstone that fans expected the organization to build around long-term.

Those massive responsibilities now fall on Flagg’s shoulders, though he’ll be supported by superstar Anthony Davis.

Some NBA players, including LeBron James, believe Flagg actually benefits from joining Dallas due to the veteran leadership available.

He’ll play alongside championship-experienced players like Davis, Klay Thompson, and Kyrie Irving, who understand what it takes to win at the highest level.

The veteran presence could accelerate Flagg’s learning curve and help him handle the pressure of becoming the franchise’s new face.

If he proves to be a quick learner, Flagg might successfully navigate the challenging circumstances and establish himself as Dallas’ foundation for the future.

This article first appeared on NBA Analysis Network and was syndicated with permission.

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