The Dallas Mavericks are heading into a crucial offseason, beginning with the expected selection of Cooper Flagg as the No. 1 overall pick in the NBA Draft. This follows a turbulent season marked by the blockbuster Luka Dončić trade and Kyrie Irving’s season-ending ACL injury.
Back in February, GM Nico Harrison made waves by sending Dončić to the Los Angeles Lakers in a controversial deal that brought back Anthony Davis, Max Christie, and a first-round pick. Just weeks later, Irving vital to the Mavs’ 2024 Finals run suffered a torn ACL, sidelining him for the rest of the season.
Injuries and lingering effects from the Dončić trade contributed to Dallas missing the playoffs. But fortune favored them in the NBA Draft Lottery, where they secured the top pick despite only a 1.8% chance paving the way to draft potential franchise player Cooper Flagg.
However, the draft is just the start of Dallas’ reshaping. One significant development is the growing expectation that the Mavericks will trade center Daniel Gafford. Known for his athleticism, rim protection, and rebounding, Gafford is reportedly drawing strong interest around the league.
On his podcast, Bill Simmons expressed confidence that Dallas will move Gafford this summer. “There are a lot of teams that need a center,” Simmons said. “If the Mavs shop Gafford, he’s going to be valuable. Every year teams like the Lakers or Bucks struggle to find a reliable big man.”
As the Mavericks plan their next steps around Flagg, Anthony Davis, and an injured Irving, all eyes will be on how they retool the roster and manage their assets in what promises to be a transformative offseason.
