Report: Dallas Mavericks Adamant On Keeping Cooper Flagg Even If Giannis Antetokounmpo Is Available

This comes after the franchise wins the overall first pick during teh draft lottery, securing their chance on drafting the long-projected overall first pick, Cooper Flagg. Thai also comes during the rumors that the franchise is eying Milwaukee Bucks star Giannis Antetokounmpo.

Cooper Flagg, the projected No. 1 overall pick, represents a long-term investment, potentially anchoring the franchise for over a decade with his two-way versatility and elite potential.

On the other hand, acquiring Giannis would immediately make the Mavericks title contenders, pairing him with Anthony Davis and Kyrie Irving for a short-term championship window. However, Giannis is 30 years old, and while he remains dominant, his addition could limit Dallas’ future flexibility.

Dallas Mavericks Predicted to Dump Anthony Davis in Mock Trade

The Dallas Mavericks are expected to make another major roster shake-up this offseason, with reports suggesting that Anthony Davis could be on the move. After acquiring Davis in a blockbuster trade for Luka Doncic, the Mavericks hoped he would be the centerpiece of their championship aspirations.

However, injuries and inconsistent performances have led to speculation that general manager Nico Harrison may trade Davis in a three-team deal involving the Chicago Bulls and Utah Jazz. The proposed trade would send Davis to his hometown of Chicago, while the Mavericks would receive Lauri Markkanen, a versatile forward who could provide much-needed floor spacing.

The potential deal would benefit all three teams involved. The Bulls would land a hometown star without sacrificing key young players like Coby White, Josh Giddey, or Matas Buzelis, while the Jazz would clear cap space and acquire multiple draft picks.

For the Mavericks, Markkanen would be a younger, less injury-prone alternative to Davis, allowing them to shed nearly $10 million in salary while maintaining a competitive roster. The move would also align with their strategy of building around Cooper Flagg, the projected No. 1 pick in the upcoming NBA Draft.

Despite the logical benefits of the trade, the biggest challenge for the Dallas Mavericks will be convincing their fanbase to accept another blockbuster move. Trading away Doncic was already controversial, and moving Davis so soon after acquiring him could further shake the franchise’s stability.