Cooper Flagg is Mavericks’ secret weapon to snag rumored Hall-of-Fame free agent.
The Dallas Mavericks’ current roster is already completely different from last year’s group that made the NBA Finals. Currently, Dallas is led by Kyrie Irving and Anthony Davis, a duo that no one expected a year ago. Now, Dallas looks to add Cooper Flagg into the mix, as he could help the Mavs form a deadly trio. Dallas owns the number one pick in the draft and is expected to select Flagg.
Yet, assuming Dallas falls through with the statement above, they will need someone to help mentor and guide Flagg. Remember, Flagg is only 18 years old and played just one year in college. Therefore, it’s possible that players like Irving and Davis could serve as that guide. They would be the perfect mentors. They, too, were number one picks, and Irving played for Duke, just like Flagg. So, they understand the high-stakes pressure.However, another player who could help guide Flagg is free agent guard Chris Paul. Recently, Paul jumped on ESPN’s The Paul McAfee Show to talk some hoops. While on the show, he discussed Flagg and gave his take on the projected number one pick. Paul had nothing but praise for Flagg, as he believes his hype is worth the wait.
Paul’s connection to Flagg could help the Mavericks’ recruitment pitch
“I’m in LA right now, and Cooper Flagg has been out there. I’ve been in the gym with him a couple times and whatnot, so he’s as real as advertised,” Paul said.
Paul’s comments are good news for two reasons.For starters, the Mavs have already been linked to Chris Paul in free agency. Paul could be the perfect replacement for Kyrie Irving until he returns from an ACL injury. His NBA experience could help guide the Mavs in a positive direction, as his leadership could be the key to success.
Another reason would be Paul’s ability to mentor and guide young players. Paul recently played for the San Antonio Spurs and did an excellent job helping lead Victor Wembanyama. He helped create numerous opportunities for Wembanyama and set him up for success.
This is something that the Mavs could have with Flagg if they sign Paul. He could help create different passing opportunities and many open looks that would allow Flagg to grow in his first year. Paul’s mentorship could guide Flagg in his first year, as he could create a successful transition into the NBA. Paul’s leadership and experience would also help open up the Mavs’ offense for other players
Paul could be the key to unlocking Flagg’s potential in his rookie year. Last season, Flagg shot 48.1 percent overall and 38.5 percent from behind the arc. So, having Paul to help diss pashes could also open up many opportunities. It would allow Flagg to become a better catch-and-shoot player from the 3-point line. Flagg could also set himself up in other areas in which Paul could space the floor.
So, having the No. 1 pick and a roster full of all-stars like Irving, Davis, and Klay Thompson could be a perfect recruiting pitch for Paul to come to Dallas. They offer Paul the best chance at winning an NBA title. While they don’t have the most money, this is something that could work in their favor. Paul is 40 years old and could be looking to end his career on a high note
Plus, Paul’s connection to Flagg could be the ideal reason for him to sign with Dallas. If you recall, Flagg and Paul are both clients under the CAA (Creative Artists Agency). So, they both work under the same agency. This might work in Dallas’ favor if they hope to add both players to their roster.
There is one problem, though: Chris Paul’s family is in Los Angeles. He mentioned how his family is important to him. Perhaps he might consider signing with the Los Angeles Lakers or the LA Clippers. If this were to happen, it would rip Mavs fans’ hearts all over again, as they already lost one player to Lebron James’ team.
