Why the draft situation could prompt a tank job to help Cooper Flagg after the departure of Nick Harrison
On Tuesday morning, The Dallas Mavericks finally made it which many fans have been asking for firing CEO Nick Harrison. The move comes amid the Mavericks’ 3-8 start to the season, in which Cooper Flagg has had some moments but the team as a whole has struggled offensively.
Recently, Mike Workunov of the Athletics went to the Blueski to break down his thoughts on where Dallas stands can potentially leave from here.
“This is the last season the Mavericks control their 1st round pick until 2031. They have to make a decision on whether to try to resuscitate this season, but there could be a strong incentive to go with the tide. The top of the 2026 draft should be very good and Cooper Flagg could use some help long term,” he reported in the app.
Indeed, the 2026 NBA Draft class is expected to be strong, with names like Cameron Boozer and Darrin Peterson at or near the top.
Tough times for the Mavericks
The Dallas Mavericks came into this year hoping to remain firmly in the Western Conference playoff race until Kyrie Irving returns, at which point they could fully become a legitimate contender.
Dallas hasn’t quite been able to do that so far, with Anthony Davis already facing an extended injury layoff that continued Monday night against the Washington Wizards and the Mavericks overall being the worst offense in the NBA so far this season.
The idea of essentially throwing in the towel in 2025-26 and hoping to compete for some more ping pong balls in the lottery that could work their way could be enticing for the Mavericks, especially when coupled with the possibility of trading Davis, Irving or both and getting more future assets in return.
Either way, the Mavericks will next take the floor on Wednesday night at home against the top-flight Phoenix Suns in their first game of the post-Nick Harrison era.
2025-11-11 18:50:00
