The Mavericks have Kyrie Irving and Dereck Lively on board and they’ve both expressed excitement about their new teammate. Irving is recovering from ACL surgery so his time with Flagg will have to wait (in fact, Flagg may end up being Irving’s replacement at point guard, at least on a part-time basis).

Going to Duke isn’t the only similarity Dereck Lively II has with Cooper Flagg. As Flagg embarks on his NBA career with the Dallas Mavericks, all while still being a teenager, Lively can relate. He’s hoping he can help Flagg through his rookie year in any way possible.

Dereck Lively II shared his completely honest thoughts on the Mavericks landing Cooper Flagg in the 2025 NBA Draft.