Mavericks Win 2025 NBA Draft Lottery: Cooper Flagg or a Trade for Giannis?

The Dallas Mavericks have won the 2025 NBA Draft Lottery, securing the No. 1 overall pick in what’s being hailed as one of the most pivotal offseasons in franchise history. With a chance to draft phenom Cooper Flagg, the Mavericks now stand at a crossroads—build around a generational rookie or swing for a superstar to win now.

Draft Order Set: Spurs, Sixers, Hornets Follow

The full top four of the 2025 NBA Draft Lottery looks like this:

1. Dallas Mavericks

2. San Antonio Spurs

3. Philadelphia 76ers

4. Charlotte Hornets

The Spurs, who already possess a once-in-a-generation big man in Victor Wembanyama, will have their pick of elite prospects behind Flagg, while the 76ers and Hornets are in prime position to add foundational talent to fast-evolving rosters.

Cooper Flagg Expected to Go No. 1

Cooper Flagg, a 6’9″ forward with elite two-way potential, is widely projected to be the top overall pick. Scouts have compared his skill set and motor to players like Jayson Tatum and a young Kawhi Leonard. For a Mavericks team that recently hit the reset button, Flagg would be the perfect young cornerstone to rebuild around.

However, there’s another path.

Giannis on the Move?

Giannis Antetokounmpo has made waves around the league after publicly stating he will “explore all options” this offseason. With the Milwaukee Bucks falling short in recent playoff runs and now facing potential roster instability, the two-time MVP could be looking for a new home. Could Dallas be it?

Luka Out, AD In: The Mavericks’ Bold Shift

Dallas made headlines earlier this season by trading Luka Dončić to the Los Angeles Lakers in exchange for Anthony Davis. The move shocked the NBA world, signaling a dramatic shift in the Mavericks’ vision. With Davis anchoring the paint, Dallas may now be tempted to create a superteam by pairing him with Giannis instead of restarting with a rookie.

Will Dallas Trade the Pick?

League sources say the Mavericks are weighing all options, including trading the No. 1 pick in a deal for Giannis. A package centered around the top selection, along with future picks and young assets, could be enough to entice the Bucks if Antetokounmpo signals he’s ready to move on.

The decision could define the franchise for the next decade:

• Draft Flagg and build a young core around him and Davis.

• Or trade the pick and go all-in with a superstar pairing of Giannis and AD.

Whichever path they choose, the Dallas Mavericks are once again at the center of the NBA universe.