Dec 31, 2024; Indianapolis, Indiana, USA; Milwaukee Bucks forward Giannis Antetokounmpo (34) in the second half against the Indiana Pacers at Gainbridge Fieldhouse. Mandatory Credit: Trevor Ruszkowski-Imagn Images Trevor Ruszkowski-Imagn Images

Lonzo Ball Urges Mavericks to Make Giannis Antetokounmpo, Cooper Flagg Trade

Originally posted on Chicago Bulls on SI
By Logan Struck | Last updated May 19, 2025 2:04 PM ET

The Dallas Mavericks shocked everyone by jumping up in the NBA Draft lottery, landing the first-overall pick in June's draft despite having just a 1.8% chance to do so.

With the first-overall pick, the Mavericks are expected to select Cooper Flagg, an elite prospect out of Duke and the undisputed top player in this year's class. However, there is a unique situation for Dallas ahead of the draft.

Very rarely does the NBA see stars of Giannis Antetokounmpo's caliber hit the trade market, but this summer, the league could be in for a treat.

Despite not having a first-round pick, the Bucks have been planning to bring in some projected top-8 picks for workouts, per @GeryWoelfel

“I’ve been told by multiple sources the Bucks are taking steps in the event Giannis Antetokounmpo moves on.” pic.twitter.com/sMSNaAYyRy
— NBACentral (@TheDunkCentral) May 19, 2025

Now that they jumped into the top spot in the draft and the right to select Cooper Flagg, the Mavericks have all the bargaining power in the world to go after Antetokounmpo.

In his recent podcast, Chicago Bulls guard Lonzo Ball urged the Mavericks to call the Bucks about a potential Antetokounmpo trade.

"If I'm Dallas, I'm lowkey calling Milwaukee first [about Giannis]," Ball said. "I'm making the call. At least feeling around. Giannis, [Anthony Davis], and Kyrie [Irving]. I mean, Kyrie getting back late, but if they hold it down 'til he get back. But even Cooper Flagg, if he get over there, he'll help for sure. I just don't think it would be an immediate impact like Giannis would be."

"I'm making that call [to Milwaukee] first, though," Ball continued. "Milwaukee needs a new star. Cooper Flagg over there, can build around him. Dallas trying to win now, you get Giannis, that puts you there."

Flagg is an elite prospect, but if the Mavericks have a chance to put a player like Antetokounmpo alongside Anthony Davis, Kyrie Irving, Klay Thompson, and company, they should not even blink an eye.

This article first appeared on Chicago Bulls on SI and was syndicated with permission.

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