As Mavericks envision Kyrie Irving, Cooper Flagg fits after Anthony Davis trade
DALLAS — It’s no secret that it is Dallas Mavericks they plan to build around Cooper Flagg after trading Anthony Davis to the Washington Wizards. however, Kyrie Irving is still a superstar when healthy and untraded. With Irving currently injured, how do the Mavs envision Kyrie fitting in alongside Flagg in the future? Mavericks interim general managers Michael Finley and Matt Riccardi addressed reporters before Thursday’s game against the San Antonio Spurs, and Finley commented on Irving’s future with the Mavs.
“We’ve both spoken to Kyrie at different times, Kyrie is the ultimate professional,” Finley told reporters. “Any young player would want a guy like Kyrie on the team. Kyrie has the utmost respect for Cooper, he loves the kid’s work ethic. He loves the kid’s love for the game. I think Kyrie embraces the role of mentoring Cooper.
“So it’s going to be amazing to have the opportunity to see those guys on the court, playing together…I think Cooper can learn a lot from Kyrie because of the type of player he is and what he brings to the table. So I think from a leadership standpoint, Kyrie is looking forward to that challenge, that task.”
Flagg was incredible in his rookie season. Most of the questions during the press conference were about Flagg, which is understandable. However, it was refreshing to hear a question about Irving, who should not be forgotten.
Still, Flagg’s outlook is extremely promising. Head coach Jason Kidd spoke to reporters before the trade was made official, so he could not directly comment on the Davis-led Wizards deal. however, he could talk about Flagg’s future as the face of the Mavericks franchise.
“Cooper has had an incredible start to his NBA career,” Kidd said. “He’s learning to play the game at a high level. He’s accepted all the challenges. I’d say there’s other things to it, not just Cooper.”
“Realizing that we have the young players that we have, we’re going to continue to develop. He’s also one that’s going to continue to develop.”
The Mavericks will try to defeat the Spurs on Thursday night.
2026-02-06 01:41:00
