Latest news with #Mavericks'
New York Times
a day ago
- Business
- New York Times
Cooper Flagg's peak timeline, guard help sans Kyrie Irving and more: Mavericks mailbag
Kyrie Irving understood the odds. At last month's NBA Draft Lottery, the Dallas Mavericks had the 11th-best chance of walking away with the No. 1 pick. Improbably, the ping-pong balls bounced the Mavericks' way, and they leaped 10 spots to win the top selection. The next morning, Irving sent out a brief message to his 4.7 million followers on X. 1.8% 🤣🤣 — Kyrie🤞🏾 (@KyrieIrving) May 13, 2025 In late June, Irving is expected to officially become teammates with Cooper Flagg, the one-and-done forward from Duke who is widely considered the best player in this year's draft class. Flagg, 18, will join a veteran-laden roster that has hopes of making a deep playoff run next season. Ahead of what figures to be an eventful few weeks for the Mavericks, you guys submitted plenty of thoughtful questions for a solid mailbag. Thank you for your submissions. Let's get into it. (Editor's note: The following has been edited for clarity and brevity.) Do you agree that the title-contending window on Flagg's peak timeline (several years from now) will be compromised because of the short-term thinking this regime has now? I don't think we are good enough to win it all anyway in the next 3-4 years with AD and Kyrie, so I'm worried Flagg won't have enough young pieces to grow/compete with when they are gone. (Also have no confidence in anything Nico/ownership does in the future.) — Marty K. By the time the playoffs start next season, Anthony Davis will be 33 and Irving will be 34. There's precedent in Dallas for a player approaching his mid-30s being the best player on a championship team. Dirk Nowitzki was 33 when the Mavericks won it all in 2011. The obvious counterpoint to that is Nowitzki was a) better than Irving and Davis, and b) not as injury-prone as either of them. Advertisement I think it's conceivable Dallas could be a contending team next season, but I need to see what moves the front office makes to address the lack of creation and ballhandling on the roster first. Irving, who's recovering from a torn ACL in his left knee, won't be back until 2026. The Mavericks need a capable hand at lead guard who would still make sense on this team once Irving returns. Looking past next season, I understand anxiety about Flagg's best years potentially being compromised. The Mavericks owe their 2027 first-round pick to the Charlotte Hornets (top-two protected). In 2028, 2029 and 2030, three Dallas rivals — the Oklahoma City Thunder, Houston Rockets and San Antonio Spurs — have first-round swap rights with the Mavericks. If next season goes well and the Mavericks do look like contenders, then wonderful. If it goes poorly, ownership can punt on the two-timeline approach. Nico Harrison, Irving and Davis are intertwined. Move on from all of them and reset around Flagg. Who is/are your ideal solution(s) at the guard spot for next year until Irving's return? — Michael S. NBA insider Marc Stein reported the Mavericks are 'expected to explore whether there are any feasible pathways' to trade for Jrue Holiday and that they maintain interest in a more 'reasonable' option: Lonzo Ball. Holiday proved in stops with Milwaukee and Boston that he is a finishing piece for a team that wants to contend. He could play with or without Irving, and he has a good relationship with Davis dating to their New Orleans days. He's also coming off a down season (11.1 points per game on a 56.5 true-shooting percentage) and is locked into a contract that might not age well. He has a $37.2 million player option in 2027-28, which will be his 19th season. Ball doesn't have as much juice as Holiday as a half-court creator, but he's an excellent passer and a smart defender, and he has made himself into a solid 3-point shooter. The problem with the No. 2 pick of the 2017 draft is that he rarely plays. Ball had a meniscus and cartilage transplant in his left knee in March 2023. Over the past four years, he's appeared in just 70 games. Depending on another injury-prone player seems unwise. Advertisement If I'm the Mavericks, I'd be more interested in Ball's Chicago Bulls teammate. Coby White plays with great pace and opens up the floor with his ability to make pull-up 3s. White made 215 3s last season, the same amount as Klay Thompson. I think the Mavericks need another floor-stretcher on their roster if they're going to try to play so many bigs simultaneously. I am also a fan of adding Chris Paul. The 40-year-old played in all 82 regular-season games for the San Antonio Spurs last season. He had a 4.69 assist-to-turnover ratio. He remains an elite decision maker. The Spurs got outscored by 0.8 points per 100 possessions with Paul on the floor; when he sat, they got outscored by 5.8 points per 100 possessions. The numbers suggest he still makes a positive impact. I like the idea of Paul setting up Flagg and Davis for easy looks. When Irving returns, the Mavericks could move him to the bench. Many have commented on why the Mavs wanted Caleb Martin, however he fits or not fits with the Mavs. Less clear to me is why teams keep moving on from a young, apparently promising player in Quentin Grimes. What is it that makes teams trade him away for older players? Is he not a great locker room guy? Does he not follow coaching instructions? — Anonymous U. I can only speak to what I observed in Dallas. Grimes was well-liked in the locker room, and he showed he had plenty of ability. I think the Mavericks' decision to trade him came down to a few things. I'm not sure that Mavericks coach Jason Kidd had great trust in him. Dallas' loss to the Detroit Pistons on Jan. 31 was a revealing game. Kidd played Dante Exum 14 minutes and Grimes 10 minutes, even though it was Exum's first game of the season. Exum missed the first three months of the season with a right wrist injury, but still got more burn in his first game back than Grimes did. I also think Grimes' looming restricted free agency had a lot to do with the decision to move him. Martin is on a cost-controlled deal. He'll make $9.6 million next season and $10 million the following season. Grimes, who had multiple 40-point games with Philadelphia during the home stretch of the season, is going to want — and get — more than that. Advertisement When healthy, where do you think the Mavs stack up in the West next year? — Cameron W. It's too early to place the Western Conference teams in tiers. There is expected to be plenty of player movement this summer. I think we need to see what happens with Giannis Antetokounmpo, Kevin Durant and others before we start playing this game. Here's what I can say after watching the playoffs up to this point: the Thunder belong in a tier by themselves. Going into the NBA Finals, they are 80-18 this season. Two of their best players — Jalen Williams and Chet Holmgren — will still be on their rookie deals next season. The Thunder are one of the greatest defensive teams in NBA history. One of the many reasons I didn't like the Luka Dončić trade for Dallas was that it put too much of a burden on Irving in a potential matchup against Oklahoma City. If the Mavericks had faced the Thunder in the playoffs this past spring, Oklahoma City could have thrown a combination of Luguentz Dort, Alex Caruso and Cason Wallace at Irving for 48 minutes. Irving didn't have a great playoff series against the Thunder in 2024 as the Mavericks' secondary option. Would he have fared better with more offensive responsibility? The Mavericks beat the Thunder in 2024, and the Denver Nuggets pushed them to seven games in May. What do those teams have in common? Dončić and Nikola Jokić are big, burly creators, which helps against Oklahoma City's ultra-physical defense. Irving is a brilliant offensive player, but he's a welterweight fighter — not a heavyweight. If the Mavs begin the season with both P.J. and Gafford on the roster, how agreeable are they to come off the bench if the front office promises a good-faith effort to get them traded to a place where they can start before the trade deadline? — Jonathan D. The addition of Flagg means even fewer minutes to spread around to what was an already-talented group of frontcourt players. P.J. Washington and Daniel Gafford both have one year left on their contracts. Of the two, I think it's more likely that Washington signs an extension and sticks around in Dallas for a while. Gafford is a good player and a great teammate, but he only plays one position: center. Washington is more versatile. The Mavericks can put him at small forward, power forward and small-ball center. I wouldn't be surprised if the Mavericks try to play Flagg, Washington, Davis and Dereck Lively II together next season in stretches. We know how much Mavericks management values defense. That foursome is light on outside shooting, but would absolutely get after it on the defensive end. (Top photo of Cooper Flagg: Jeff Haynes / NBAE via Getty Images)
Perth Now
4 days ago
- Sport
- Perth Now
Fretwell the super shot star in lethal Lightning strike
A banged-up Courtney Bruce produced a stellar defensive effort and Steph Fretwell backed it up with a perfect shooting display as the Sunshine Coast Lightning defeated the Melbourne Mavericks 67-60. Bruce crumpled to the floor in pain with a left ankle injury and could barely put weight on it as she limped off the court in the second quarter of Saturday's Super Netball clash at UniSC Arena. The Lightning led 24-15 at the time, but Bruce's exit allowed the Mavericks to close the margin to four goals a few minutes later. Bruce was able to return near the end of the quarter, with her presence proving crucial as the Lightning blew out the lead to as much as 18 goals in the third quarter, before holding off the Mavericks' late fightback. Lightning goal shooter Cara Koenen scored 45 goals from 51 attempts in a strong effort, but it was Fretwell who was the star in the big moments. Fretwell nailed a perfect 7-of-7 super shots in a remarkable display, and also converted 7-of-7 from normal range on the way to 21 points for the match. Star Mavericks shooter Shimona Jok finished with 41 goals from 42 attempts to go with two super shots, and Uneeq Palavi made 5-of-11 super shots, but it wasn't enough. The result improved the Lightning's record to 5-3, while the Mavericks (2-6) face a monumental task to make the finals. "Last week I wasn't really happy with how I shot, probably been a bit dodgy for the past few weeks," Fretwell told Fox Sports after the match. "Shooting this week was a big part that I wanted to make sure I executed." The first quarter was a topsy-turvy affair, with the Lightning shooting out to a 7-2 lead, the Mavericks fighting back to level the scores, before Fretwell's super shots gave the home side a 18-13 lead by the first break. Bruce's injury in the second quarter resulted in a momentum shift. But when Bruce returned to the court and Fretwell nailed some more long-range bombs, the Lightning entered the halftime break with a 38-30 lead. The third quarter was one-way traffic as the Mavericks' scoring dried up and the Lightning went into overdrive, opening up a 57-41 lead by the final change. The margin was whittled down to six goals with three-and-a-half minutes left, but the Lightning were able to hold firm from there. "We are really good at coming from behind at the moment, it's one of our strengths," Mavericks centre Molly Jovic said. "When we've got nothing to lose, we go for it, and we need to work out how to do that from the first quarter."
West Australian
4 days ago
- Sport
- West Australian
Fretwell the super shot star in lethal Lightning strike
A banged-up Courtney Bruce produced a stellar defensive effort and Steph Fretwell backed it up with a perfect shooting display as the Sunshine Coast Lightning defeated the Melbourne Mavericks 67-60. Bruce crumpled to the floor in pain with a left ankle injury and could barely put weight on it as she limped off the court in the second quarter of Saturday's Super Netball clash at UniSC Arena. The Lightning led 24-15 at the time, but Bruce's exit allowed the Mavericks to close the margin to four goals a few minutes later. Bruce was able to return near the end of the quarter, with her presence proving crucial as the Lightning blew out the lead to as much as 18 goals in the third quarter, before holding off the Mavericks' late fightback. Lightning goal shooter Cara Koenen scored 45 goals from 51 attempts in a strong effort, but it was Fretwell who was the star in the big moments. Fretwell nailed a perfect 7-of-7 super shots in a remarkable display, and also converted 7-of-7 from normal range on the way to 21 points for the match. Star Mavericks shooter Shimona Jok finished with 41 goals from 42 attempts to go with two super shots, and Uneeq Palavi made 5-of-11 super shots, but it wasn't enough. The result improved the Lightning's record to 5-3, while the Mavericks (2-6) face a monumental task to make the finals. "Last week I wasn't really happy with how I shot, probably been a bit dodgy for the past few weeks," Fretwell told Fox Sports after the match. "Shooting this week was a big part that I wanted to make sure I executed." The first quarter was a topsy-turvy affair, with the Lightning shooting out to a 7-2 lead, the Mavericks fighting back to level the scores, before Fretwell's super shots gave the home side a 18-13 lead by the first break. Bruce's injury in the second quarter resulted in a momentum shift. But when Bruce returned to the court and Fretwell nailed some more long-range bombs, the Lightning entered the halftime break with a 38-30 lead. The third quarter was one-way traffic as the Mavericks' scoring dried up and the Lightning went into overdrive, opening up a 57-41 lead by the final change. The margin was whittled down to six goals with three-and-a-half minutes left, but the Lightning were able to hold firm from there. "We are really good at coming from behind at the moment, it's one of our strengths," Mavericks centre Molly Jovic said. "When we've got nothing to lose, we go for it, and we need to work out how to do that from the first quarter."
Yahoo
21-05-2025
- Sport
- Yahoo
Jason Kidd Reveals Potential Mavericks Lineup With Cooper Flagg That Can Scare Rest Of The NBA
The Dallas Mavericks were staring down a grim future after being bounced in the Play-In Tournament and trading away franchise cornerstone Luka Doncic for Anthony Davis. With Kyrie Irving recovering from a torn ACL and limited cap flexibility, the Mavericks' outlook for 2025-26 seemed uncertain. That all changed when they defied the odds and landed the No. 1 overall pick in the 2025 NBA Draft. With that pick comes the opportunity to draft Duke phenom Cooper Flagg, a transformational talent and the kind of player that can alter the course of a franchise. Advertisement Head coach Jason Kidd has wasted no time envisioning how Flagg fits into his system, and his recent comments on the DLLS Mavs Podcast have fans and analysts buzzing. Kidd hinted at deploying Flagg in a freakishly versatile lineup that could make life miserable for opposing offenses. The proposed lineup? Kyrie Irving, Cooper Flagg, P.J. Washington, Anthony Davis, and Dereck Lively II, a monstrous blend of size, switchability, and defensive upside. Kidd specifically floated the idea of playing the 6'10' Flagg at shooting guard in certain sets. While unconventional, it underlines Flagg's unique skill set: elite court vision, high basketball IQ, and the length and agility to guard multiple positions. His freshman season at Duke showcased his versatility, averaging 19.2 points, 7.5 rebounds, 4.2 assists, 1.4 blocks, and 1.4 steals. He's been compared to a hybrid of Jayson Tatum, Giannis Antetokounmpo, and Paul George. And now, Kidd is ready to give him the keys to unlock chaos. Advertisement Slotting Flagg in the backcourt with Irving allows the Mavericks to trot out a super-sized lineup without sacrificing playmaking. Washington remains at the three where he thrives, while Davis and Lively II patrol the paint. The defensive potential of this unit is terrifying, they could switch one through five, shrink the floor, and dominate the boards. Opposing guards would struggle to create separation with Flagg's length in their face, and big men would have to contend with two elite shot blockers in Davis and Lively. While there are questions, particularly around three-point shooting and floor spacing, this lineup isn't built to trade buckets. It's built to smother teams, slow the game down, and let elite two-way talent take over. It also allows Kidd to preserve Washington's role amid rumors he could be traded due to overlapping skills with Flagg. Flagg's presence will also accelerate the Mavericks' long-term development. Kidd acknowledged that playing him at the two will help speed up his growth as a secondary ball handler and initiator. It's a gamble worth taking for a player being touted as a generational talent. Advertisement With Davis healthy, Flagg ready to make his mark, and Irving set to return in 2026, the Mavericks may have found their next great core. If this lineup hits its ceiling, Jason Kidd may have just built the NBA's next defensive juggernaut. Related: Shocking Trade Idea: Boston Celtics Could Land Cooper Flagg For A Huge Package Amid Ongoing Rumors
Fox Sports
14-05-2025
- Sport
- Fox Sports
Mavericks reportedly expected to keep 1st pick, add Cooper Flagg to their core
Immediately after the Dallas Mavericks won the NBA Draft lottery on Monday night, speculation ensued. Would they trade the pick and continue throwing everything into the win-now bucket, or would they retain the selection and, presumably, use it on Cooper Flagg? The hypothesis seems to have been short-lived as ESPN reported on Tuesday that the Mavericks "will not entertain the possibility" of trading the No. 1 pick and instead will take the 6-foot-9 prospect from Duke. It's a decision that certainly sets them up for the future, as Flagg is as sure of a thing as can be in an NBA prospect. In his lone season at Duke, he averaged 19.2 points and 7.5 rebounds while leading the Blue Devils to the Final Four and becoming the fifth freshman to ever win the Naismith Player of the Year. But taking Flagg will also help them win right now. And checking both those boxes with one player is vital for the Mavericks, who have a sturdy core, but could benefit from a life-raft, and contingency plan, in Flagg, if things go awry. This is, of course, a look far into the future, when Dallas is at full strength as point guard Kyrie Irving tore his ACL in early March and, presumably, won't be back until the latter part of next season. But, when the Mavericks are healthy, they have talent at every position, and players whose strengths complement one another. Forward Anthony Davis, a one-time NBA champion, remains the premier option on both sides of the ball. While he's struggled with injuries over the past few seasons, when he's at the peak of his powers, he's a versatile big-man who can score inside and in the mid-range; with his back to the basket, and off the dribble. He's also an elite rim protector, who has the nimbleness to switch onto perimeter players. Irving, if he returns to being the same player, is one of the best ball-handlers in the NBA, who can create for himself off the dribble and score at all three levels. The Mavericks' offense will go as he does once he returns. Klay Thompson won four NBA championships with the Golden State Warriors and was one of the best two-way guards and a lights-out shooter. He's regressed a bit as he's aged, but the 35-year-old still has a consistent jumper and as much experience in significant games as anyone. Center Dereck Lively, a former Duke prospect as well, is heading into his third season in the NBA and is a burgeoning defender, who averaged 1.6 blocks per game this past season. Then there's Flagg, who'd instantly be the Mavericks' best wing. He's malleable enough to adapt to any NBA scheme, and contribute however a team needs him to. While he thrives with the ball in his hands, creating offense for himself, he also shot 40.8% on catch-and-shoot 3s and had a 4.2-2.1 assist-to-turnover ratio. He can also fit any defensive approach as he's sturdy on the ball and intelligent in help-defense, averaging 1.4 steals per game at Duke. Legendary coach Mike Krzyzewski joins Colin Cowherd to break down what makes Cooper Flagg a top NBA prospect. "Cooper is just unique," former Duke coach Mike Krzyzewski said Tuesday on "The Herd", "His legs are so strong and, athletically, he's gifted. When you add his athletic ability and his competitive attitude, you have a really special guy." He's the type of player who can be additive to a team trying to contend for the NBA championship, and also buoy a franchise for the future. It's a perfect situation that the Dallas Mavericks fell into, and seemingly, they're making the simple choice, taking Flagg. Want great stories delivered right to your inbox? Create or log in to your FOX Sports account and follow leagues, teams and players to receive a personalized newsletter daily! recommended Get more from National Basketball Association Follow your favorites to get information about games, news and more
