5 Dallas Mavericks Trade Targets to Save Cooper Flagg's Rookie NBA Season
Early November losses typically don't cause panic, but when the Dallas Mavericks fall to the 2025-26 New Orleans Pelicans, it's time to raise concerns. The Mavericks must make a trade to improve Cooper Flagg's rookie season beyond mere moral victories.
Urgent Need to Upgrade Offense
Dallas ranks 30th in points scored per possession and 28th in effective field-goal percentage, lacking internal solutions. D'Angelo Russell is not the solution. Putting Flagg at point guard is interesting but unfair to burden him with heavy playmaking duties so early.
The Mavericks are minus-61 this season when Flagg plays without a point guard, posting an offensive rating that is painfully low.
Waiting on Kyrie Irving’s return from an ACL injury is not viable; his timeline remains uncertain, and the Western Conference leaves no room for errors.
Trade Targets for Dallas Mavericks
Here are five ambitious yet realistic players Dallas should consider targeting:
- Tyler Herro – Currently sidelined with a left ankle surgery, Herro has not played this season yet.
- Norman Powell – Has performed well in Herro’s absence, raising his trade value.
- Jaime Jaquez Jr. – Gained valuable experience handling the ball on the court.
- Kasparas Jakučionis – A recent selection who Miami Heat chose not to sign to an extension, making him a potentially accessible target.
- Other potential targets – Players who could provide immediate offensive improvement.
Tyler Herro "could be more gettable than untouchable" due to his recovery status and Miami Heat's recent decisions.
Dallas Mavericks must act decisively to support Cooper Flagg's development and raise their offensive efficiency in a competitive Western Conference.
Author's summary: The Mavericks face urgent offensive struggles and must trade strategically to bolster Cooper Flagg’s rookie season and remain competitive in the Western Conference.