“KD things is like shooting for a star” – Quentin Richardson on why the Mavs should focus on Cooper Flagg rather than trading him for Kevin Durant.
Ever since the Dallas Mavericks secured the No. 1 pick in the upcoming NBA draft – and with it, a prime opportunity to draft Cooper Flagg – all eyes have been on how the franchise will navigate this pivotal decision. With Flagg widely regarded as a generational prospect who has already held his own against All-NBA-esque players as a teenager, the team finds themselves at a crossroads: do they build around a future star or trade they pick to chase a proven superstar in the upcoming offseason?
“If I’m Dallas Mavericks, I keep Cooper Flagg because he fits perfectly in that lineup. The KD thing is like shooting for a star. You don’t want to get yourself in a situation, something like the Suns, for whatever reason it just does not work,” Q-Rich said. “I think if you go with the younger pick, it’s gonna cost you much money. I feel Cooper Flagg checks all the boxes for what they need
Beyond the basketball reason, there’s also an emotional and cultural angle to consider. After trading Luka Doncic, the Mavs saw their connection with the fanbase take a considerable hit. Thus, bringing in a young potential superstar like Cooper could once again make fans believe in a player for years in the long term
Dallas Mavs do not need more superstars
Of course, there is no denying that “Durantula” would raise the team’s scoring ceiling. However, as Richardson points out, the two-time Final MVP’s stints in Brooklyn and Phoenix only emphasized that not every superstar is meant to join forces with other high-usage players. KD thrives with the ball in his hands – and with Kyrie and AD already in the fold, that dynamic could once again prove problematic. On the flip side, Flagg’s selfless style and ability to contribute without dominating possessions make him a perfect fit for a roster already loaded with veterans.
Ultimately, acquiring a star-studded lineup doesn’t guarantee any success in the NBA. True success comes with building around young talent or nurturing them to make a name for themselves in the league as the best players. Imagine Cooper being given that trust, and alongside veterans like AD and Kai, this trio could consistently cause havoc in the West and the rest of the league for several years.
