Klutch Sports Group founder Rich Paul made a bold prediction about Cooper Flagg’s future ahead of the 2025 NBA Draft. Speaking on Monday’s episode of The Pat McAfee Show, Paul expressed strong confidence that the Dallas Mavericks will use their newly acquired No. 1 overall pick to draft Flagg, rather than trading it.
Dallas defied the odds with just a 1.8% chance of landing the top pick, and early speculation suggested they might consider trading down or shopping the pick for a proven star. However, Rich Paul doesn’t see that happening.
“I think there will be no trade,” Paul said. “I think the Mavs take him, and I think it’s the right thing for the kid. Obviously, there are teams that would love to have him. But if you look at Cooper Flagg, where he’s at today—he’s well developed, and you put him next to guys like AD and Lively, that’s a great fit.”
Why Dallas Could Be the Perfect Fit for Flagg
Paul went on to explain why the Mavericks provide the ideal situation for a young star like Flagg. Since Dallas is already competing at a high level, Flagg won’t be expected to carry the scoring load or post gaudy numbers right away, allowing him to grow within a winning culture.
“He doesn’t have to average 25–30 points a night,” Paul noted. “Dallas is playing to win, and that’s great for his development.”
Cooper Flagg wrapped up a stellar freshman season at Duke, appearing in 37 games and averaging 19.2 points, 7.5 rebounds, and 4.2 assists per game. At 6-foot-9, Flagg brings a rare combination of size, versatility, and two-way impact. His ability to score from all three levels and defend multiple positions makes him one of the most coveted American prospects since Zion Williamson.
In Dallas’ defense-first system, Flagg’s skills could be maximized immediately. With Luka Doncic now gone, the Mavericks appear to be retooling their roster with an eye on long-term potential rather than short-term splash moves.
Insider Reports Confirm Flagg Is the Pick
Backing up Paul’s claim, Mavericks insider Tim McMahon reported on Tuesday that Dallas fully intends to select Flagg with the No. 1 pick.
“The Dallas Mavericks will be picking Cooper Flagg with the No. 1 overall pick,” McMahon said definitively.
This comes amid speculation that Dallas might try to trade the pick in a blockbuster move—possibly targeting a superstar like Giannis Antetokounmpo. But McMahon believes the team has shifted its focus away from such deals after moving on from Doncic last season.
Instead, the Mavericks seem committed to building around a new cornerstone. And by all accounts, Cooper Flagg may be that guy.