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Cooper Flagg’s planned role with Dallas Mavericks revealed, he’s set for a heavy workload
Photo by Ethan Miller/Getty Images

Cooper Flagg will command significant attention during his rookie season.

The generational talent earned the number one pick in the 2025 NBA Draft and will easily be an attention magnet for the Dallas Mavericks.

The Mavericks will maximize his potential after the Luka Doncic trade as they need a new face of the franchise.

Well, currently they have Anthony Davis, but he can be inconsistent in terms of availability.

Kyrie Irving will also miss a large part of next season due to injury, and Klay Thompson has already passed his prime.

This leaves Cooper Flagg as a media darling, making all discussion about him interesting. This includes the role he will play next season.

Photo by Ethan Miller/Getty Images

Dallas media lists Flagg as both guard and forward

Dallas Insider Mike Curtis revealed that Flagg has been registered as both a guard and forward on the Mavericks’ media materials.

This dual designation reflects his unique skill set and potential flexibility. The classification aligns with coach Jason Kidd’s vision for the Duke product.

Jason Kidd believes Flagg possesses the ability to operate as a point forward, drawing comparisons to NBA legend Grant Hill.

Flagg demonstrated primary ball-handling capabilities during his college career, suggesting he could fulfill a similar role professionally.

Kidd previously utilized this approach with Giannis Antetokounmpo during his Milwaukee tenure.

Mavericks may need Flagg to handle playmaking duties immediately

Dallas faces potential point guard concerns heading into next season. The team’s depth at the position could create opportunities for Flagg to assume ball-handling responsibilities early in his career.

D’Angelo Russell showed decline last season, appearing less effective than during his peak playmaking years. This regression could open the door for alternative solutions.

Position With Flagg as a Guard With Flagg as a Forward
Point Guard Cooper Flagg D’Angelo Russell
Shooting Guard Klay Thompson Klay Thompson
Small Forward P.J. Washington Cooper Flagg
Power Forward Anthony Davis Anthony Davis
Center Daniel Gafford Daniel Gafford

Giving a rookie primary ball-handling duties carries inherent risks. However, Flagg’s college experience and natural instincts suggest he possesses the tools necessary for the transition.

The Mavericks will need significant contributions from their rookie regardless of his specific role, making his development crucial to the franchise’s immediate and long-term success.

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

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