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‘That‘s one of the best‘… Paul George explains the special condition Cooper Flagg received with the Dallas Mavericks

Originally posted on NBA Analysis Network
By Bergas Agung | Last updated Jul 8, 2025 8:40 PM ET

The Dallas Mavericks struck gold by landing generational talent Cooper Flagg in the draft.

However, the rookie might also be the luckiest player in this equation, finding himself in an ideal development environment.

LeBron James previously highlighted how joining the Mavericks automatically surrounds Cooper Flagg with championship-level mentors.

The King emphasized the unique advantage of learning from veterans who understand what it takes to win at the highest level.

Paul George explains why Dallas gives Flagg the ultimate rookie advantage

Paul George recently echoed similar sentiments on his podcast, praising the Mavericks’ veteran-heavy roster.

The former All-Star believes Flagg couldn’t have asked for a better landing spot to begin his NBA journey.

“What I love most about it is as good as Cooper is, he’s not asked to come in right away.

“That’s one of the best things I think a young player can have, regardless of where you’re drafted or skill set, is good vets around you,” George explained.

George continued his praise for the Mavericks’ culture: “He’s coming in with some of the best vets that know how to win, who have won, and it’s culture there with Jason Kidd being the coach. I like what Dallas got.”

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Three future Hall of Famers create unprecedented mentorship opportunity

George’s assessment carries significant weight given the Mavericks’ current roster construction. Dallas boasts three arguable future Hall of Famers who have already captured NBA championships: Kyrie Irving, Klay Thompson, and Anthony Davis.

The mentorship extends beyond players to the coaching staff, with Jason Kidd bringing his own Hall of Fame credentials to the sideline. Former All-Star D’Angelo Russell adds another veteran voice to guide Flagg’s development.

This collection of championship-tested veterans creates an unprecedented learning environment for a rookie.

The Mavericks possess enough experienced players to teach Flagg the nuances of competing at the NBA’s highest level.

Flagg enters playoff contention immediately unlike George’s rookie experience

The Mavericks are expected to be playoff contenders next season, meaning Flagg will likely experience postseason basketball in his first year.

This opportunity to learn playoff intensity from teammates with extensive postseason experience represents a luxury most rookies never receive.

On the other hand, George understands the value of this situation, having entered the league without such advantages.

When the Indiana Pacers selected him 10th overall in the 2010 NBA Draft, George didn’t have a single All-Star teammate to learn from during his rookie campaign.

The contrast highlights just how fortunate Flagg’s situation truly is, landing with a franchise built for immediate success while maintaining the perfect environment for long-term development.

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

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