The Dallas Mavericks have endured an emotional rollercoaster that left their fanbase questioning everything they thought they knew about the franchise’s direction.
The stunning trade of Luka Dončić sent shockwaves through the NBA, but fortune smiled on Dallas when they secured the first overall pick in the 2025 NBA Draft and selected Cooper Flagg.
Just as optimism began building around the talented American prospect, FS1 Analyst Nick Wright delivered a reality check that dampened the enthusiasm.
“I think right now, they are more than a touch overrated. I do not care how good you are, what your profile is. In the modern NBA, in particular, rookies that have to be the focal point of a team’s offense do not contribute to winning. They just don’t,” Wright said on his “What’s Wright?” podcast.
“I think right now they are more than a touch overrated… until Kyrie comes back you’re asking your primary ball handler and creator to be an 18 year old.”@getnickwright is not buying Cooper Flagg and the Mavericks as a contender THIS year pic.twitter.com/MNLoRjUdSW
— What’s Wright? with Nick Wright (@WhatsWrightShow) June 26, 2025
Wright’s criticism centers on the burden placed on a young player’s shoulders.
He referenced how even future legends like LeBron James and Michael Jordan struggled to translate individual brilliance into team success during their first seasons, particularly when serving as the primary offensive catalyst.
The situation becomes more complex when examining Dallas’s current roster construction.
While Wright acknowledges the Mavericks possess supporting talent, the timing creates complications.
Kyrie Irving remains committed to the organization after signing a three-year, $119 million deal, but his recovery from ACL surgery will sideline him for most of the upcoming season.
Without Irving’s veteran leadership and playmaking ability, the responsibility falls heavily on Flagg’s young shoulders.
Klay Thompson provides a steady veteran presence, and Anthony Davis has impressed in his early appearances with the team.
The pieces appear to be in place for Dallas to remain competitive, but Wright questions whether they can mesh effectively with such a young focal point.
Wright doesn’t dispute the potential within this rebuilt roster.
His concern lies with the timeline and expectations.
Despite the excitement surrounding their new direction, he believes the Mavericks face an uphill battle in 2025-26, regardless of the talent they’ve assembled.
