The Dallas Mavericks head into the offseason with major decisions ahead most notably how Cooper Flagg will impact the roster. Flagg, a once-in-a-generation prospect praised for his relentless work ethic and elite defense, could be a great fit for Dallas, especially with GM Nico Harrison emphasizing defense since trading Luka Doncic for Anthony Davis.
But Flagg’s arrival could create a frontcourt logjam. The Mavericks already have key big men like P.J. Washington and Daniel Gafford. Adding Flagg might force the team to move one of them. Gafford, for example, could be battling Dereck Lively II for a starting center role, while Washington may find himself on the trade block.
Anthony Davis Isn’t the Lock He Once Seemed
While Davis is safe from trade talks and was acquired to be Dallas’ centerpiece, recent playoff trends suggest that may not be the ideal formula. This year’s final four teams all have dynamic guard or wing leaders Tyrese Haliburton (Pacers), Jalen Brunson (Knicks), Anthony Edwards (Timberwolves), and Shai Gilgeous-Alexander (Thunder)—highlighting the value of perimeter creators.
Take the Denver Nuggets’ recent loss as a cautionary tale. The team collapsed offensively, shooting just 22.2% from deep, committing 23 turnovers, and relying too heavily on Nikola Jokic. With little support from his teammates and no secondary playmaker, Jokic struggled under pressure from a tough Thunder defense.
This one-dimensional approach is exactly what Dallas must avoid with Davis. If he’s their focal point, they need to surround him with skilled ball-handlers and shot-creators to prevent similar stagnation.
Dallas Needs More Playmakers
The Mavericks showed flashes last season with players like Naji Marshall and Dante Exum both capable playmakers but outside of them, depth is lacking. Kyrie Irving was supposed to shoulder much of the offensive load, but his absence for much of the season left Dallas without a consistent creator. Brandon Williams offers potential but is still maturing.
The truth is, Doncic used to fill that role perfectly. He was the primary ball-handler, shot creator, and offensive engine. Now that he’s gone, the Mavericks must build a roster that can replicate those skills elsewhere, or they risk running into the same problems Denver did.
Conclusion: Davis Needs the Right Support
The playoffs have made one thing clear modern NBA success revolves around elite guards and wings. While Anthony Davis could challenge that narrative, he can’t do it alone. If Dallas wants to fulfill Harrison’s vision and avoid the pitfalls seen in Denver, they must prioritize adding versatile, creative guards this summer.
