In a stunning turn of events, the Dallas Mavericks secured the No. 1 overall pick in the 2025 NBA Draft, despite having just a 1.8% chance, a leap from the 11th slot to the top, marking the largest jump in NBA Draft Lottery history. Of course, this comes on the heels of a controversial trade of franchise cornerstone Luka Doncic to the Los Angeles Lakers in exchange for Anthony Davis.
The move was met with widespread criticism, leaving fans questioning the direction of the team. Now, with the top pick in hand, the Mavericks have a golden opportunity to redefine their future.
While selecting Duke’s standout freshman Cooper Flagg, a versatile 6’9″ forward who averaged 19.2 points, 7.5 rebounds, and 4.2 assists per game, is the anticipated move, the allure of trading the pick for win-now superstars is still very possible.
The Mavericks have superstar talent in Kyrie Irving and Anthony Davis, but moving the No. 1 pick (obviously Cooper Flagg) for a third superstar makes perfect sense if Dallas finds the right player. Luckily, we have three superstars whom the Mavs will strongly consider trading for. Let’s dive in.
1. Giannis Antetokounmpo
Proposed Trade Details
Dallas Mavericks Receive: Giannis Antetokounmpo
Milwaukee Bucks Receive: Cooper Flagg, Klay Thompson, Daniel Gafford, P.J. Washington
This blockbuster trade would bring Giannis Antetokounmpo, a two-time MVP, to Dallas, providing the Mavericks with a dominant force on both ends of the court. In the 2024-25 season, Giannis averaged 30.4 points, 11.9 rebounds, and 6.5 assists per game, showcasing his all-around excellence despite a challenging season for the Bucks.
His efficiency remained high, with a field goal percentage of 60.1%, ranking 39th in the NBA, which is incredible when looking at his offensive numbers as a whole. Pairing Giannis with Anthony Davis would create a formidable frontcourt, and it makes sense that The Greek Freak would consider moving to Dallas after reports have come out about his willingness to entertain leaving Milwaukee to compete for a championship.
For the Bucks, acquiring Cooper Flagg, the projected top pick, offers a promising future. Flagg’s versatility and potential make him an ideal cornerstone for a rebuilding team. Adding veterans like Klay Thompson, Daniel Gafford, and P.J. Washington provides Milwaukee with experienced players who can contribute immediately. This trade allows the Bucks to reset while still remaining competitive in the Eastern Conference.
From a strategic standpoint, the Mavericks would be capitalizing on their unexpected lottery win by acquiring a proven superstar. Giannis’ desire to explore opportunities outside Milwaukee aligns with Dallas’ ambitions to return to championship contention.
2. Devin Booker
Proposed Trade Details
Dallas Mavericks Receive: Devin Booker, Ryan Dunn
Phoenix Suns Receive: Cooper Flagg, Klay Thompson, Daniel Gafford, P.J. Washington
Devin Booker, who is easily a top-two shooting guard in the NBA, averaged 25.6 points, 7.1 assists, and 4.1 rebounds over 75 games in the 2024-25 season. His ability to create shots and facilitate offense would provide the Mavericks with a dynamic backcourt presence. Booker’s experience and leadership could come into play alongside the other two superstar veterans in Dallas.
The inclusion of Ryan Dunn adds a young, athletic wing with defensive upside (6.9 PPG, 3.6 RPG), complementing Dallas’ roster perfectly. For the Suns, acquiring Cooper Flagg offers a fresh start with a high-upside prospect.
Flagg’s potential to develop into a franchise player makes him an attractive asset. Adding veterans like Thompson, Gafford, and Washington provides Phoenix with depth and flexibility.
This trade reflects a strategic shift for both teams. Dallas would be focusing on immediate success by adding an established star, while Phoenix would be embracing a retooling phase centered around youth and potential. The next move for the Suns would obviously be to move Kevin Durant and Bradley Beal next, although the latter won’t be as easy due to the player’s no-trade clause.
3. Joel Embiid
Proposed Trade Details
Dallas Mavericks Receive: Joel Embiid, 2031 First-Round Pick (PHI), 2031 Second-Round Pick (PHI)
Philadelphia 76ers Receive: Cooper Flagg, Klay Thompson, Daniel Gafford, P.J. Washington
Joel Embiid, despite injury setbacks, is still one of the league’s premier centers when he is on the court. In the 2024-25 season, he averaged 23.8 points, 8.2 rebounds, and 4.5 assists over 19 games.
His presence in the paint would significantly bolster the Mavericks’ interior defense and scoring. However, concerns about his health persist, as he underwent arthroscopic surgery on his left knee in April 2025.
For the 76ers, trading Embiid allows them to pivot towards a younger core. Cooper Flagg’s potential as a future star provides a foundation for rebuilding. The addition of seasoned players like Thompson, Gafford, and Washington offers immediate support and veteran leadership. This move could help Philadelphia reset and plan for long-term success around Tyrese Maxey.
Dallas, by acquiring Embiid, would be taking a calculated risk, banking on his return to form. If healthy, Embiid’s impact could be transformative, elevating the Mavericks to contender status because a core of Kyrie, Davis, and Embiid would simply be unstoppable on both ends of the court.
