The team is only in a position to draft that prospect because it was bad. It takes a few years to get good. Keeping a good team together is expensive and not really possible indefinitely in the current CBA environment.

Cooper Flagg’s arrival energizes the Mavericks, offering a chance to compete and develop into a franchise star.

Mar 3, 2025; Durham, North Carolina, USA; Duke Blue Devils forward Cooper Flagg (2) reacts as he heads to the bench during the second half against the Wake Forest Demon Deacons at Cameron Indoor Stadium. The Blue Devils won 93-60. Mandatory Credit: Rob Kinnan-Imagn Images / Rob Kinnan-Imagn Images