Mavericks' Future Questioned Despite Cooper Flagg's Rise
AI-generated image · US National Wire
ESPN ranks Dallas 17th in three-year power rankings, citing uncertainty over the team's competitive window despite the presence of the reigning Rookie of the Year.
The Dallas Mavericks' long-term trajectory remains a point of contention among league analysts, even after the arrival of Cooper Flagg. As Sports Illustrated first reported, ESPN writers recently collaborated on power rankings for the next three years, placing the Mavericks 17th overall.
ESPN's Zach Kram noted that while the 19-year-old Flagg—the reigning Rookie of the Year—is one of the league's most promising prospects, the Mavericks are viewed as a "middle of the pack" team. Kram highlighted uncertainty regarding when Flagg and his teammates will begin a legitimate push toward the playoffs.
Dallas has attempted to build a young core around Flagg, selecting Morez Johnson Jr. with the 9th overall pick and Sergio De Larrea at 25th. The roster includes shooter Max Christie, as well as veteran contributors Daniel Gafford, Naji Marshall, and P.J. Washington. Additionally, Dereck Lively II is viewed as a potential starting-caliber rim protector, provided he can remain healthy.
However, Sports Illustrated reports several complications facing the franchise. Kyrie Irving is 34 years old and recovering from an ACL injury, with the possibility of becoming a free agent next year or being traded if the team struggles. Furthermore, Dallas faces a shortage of future assets; the team does not control its own draft picks until 2031, though it does hold a Los Angeles Lakers pick in 2029.