Duke’s Cooper Flagg ‘Got Lucky’ Mavericks Had Top Pick in NBA Draft, Says Draymond Green: Here’s What He Really Meant

Draymond Green has never been one to sugarcoat his opinions, and when it comes to Duke phenom Cooper Flagg, the outspoken NBA veteran isn’t backing down. During a recent episode of his popular podcast, Green stirred up conversation around the league when he bluntly stated that Flagg “got lucky” the Dallas Mavericks held the No. 1 overall pick in the 2025 NBA Draft.

The statement, while seemingly critical, actually carried layers of meaning—and, as usual, sparked passionate debates across social media, NBA circles, and the college basketball world.

Cooper Flagg, the Duke Blue Devils standout, had been the consensus top pick heading into the draft, after a sensational freshman season that solidified his status as the most electrifying young prospect since LeBron James. At 6-foot-9 with guard-like skills, elite defensive instincts, and an undeniable competitive fire, Flagg captured national attention and redefined expectations for college one-and-done stars.

But Draymond Green believes the young forward’s immediate NBA path could’ve been drastically different had the lottery balls bounced another way.

“Listen, I love Cooper’s game,” Green began during his show. “The kid is a straight killer. But let’s be real—the only reason he’s walking into a perfect situation is because the Mavericks lucked into the No. 1 pick. And that’s lucky for him too.”

Green wasn’t suggesting Flagg isn’t worthy of being the first overall pick. His point focused more on the rare convergence of elite young talent landing with an already playoff-proven roster—a scenario far different from what most top picks face.

Traditionally, the No. 1 pick ends up on a struggling franchise buried in the lottery. Teams like the Detroit Pistons, Charlotte Hornets, or Washington Wizards often occupy that territory, making the immediate road to success steep for rookies tasked with being saviors.

But the 2025 draft defied convention. Thanks to a unique combination of previous trades and lottery odds, the Mavericks, fresh off a deep playoff run and boasting superstars Luka Dončić and Kyrie Irving, jumped to the top of the draft board. That unexpected twist altered the trajectory of both Flagg’s career and the Mavericks’ title hopes.

For Green, a four-time NBA champion known for his defensive brilliance and high basketball IQ, that alignment is where “luck” enters the equation.

“Imagine Cooper Flagg going to Charlotte or Detroit,” Green continued. “That’s a rebuild. You’re learning how to lose before you learn how to win. But going to Dallas? You got Luka, you got Kyrie, you got a team that just played meaningful basketball in May. That’s different.”

Indeed, Flagg’s arrival in Dallas has NBA insiders buzzing about the Mavericks’ immediate title window. Adding a generational defensive weapon and versatile offensive contributor to an already potent lineup elevates expectations across the board.

Flagg, for his part, has downplayed the notion that luck played a significant role. During his introductory press conference with Dallas, the Maine native credited his time at Duke, his relentless work ethic, and his faith in preparation for putting him in position to thrive.

“Every player dreams of hearing their name called first,” Flagg told reporters. “But what matters most is what comes next—the work, the growth, earning your place. I’m excited to be in Dallas and ready to embrace the challenge.”

His lone season at Duke made that mindset evident. Flagg averaged 21.4 points, 8.9 rebounds, 3.2 assists, and 2.6 blocks per game while leading the Blue Devils to an ACC title and a Final Four appearance. His defensive versatility, perimeter shooting, and competitive edge made scouts and executives rave, but what stood out most was his maturity.

Mike Krzyzewski, Duke’s Hall of Fame coach turned program advisor, praised Flagg’s readiness for the NBA grind.

“Cooper came to Duke with enormous expectations and exceeded them,” Krzyzewski said. “But it’s his humility and willingness to learn that sets him apart. The Mavericks are getting a player wise beyond his years.”

Draymond Green’s comments, while generating headlines, echo a broader truth within NBA circles—the environment a young player lands in can often dictate their early success more than talent alone.

Few rookies step into a roster as talented or well-structured as Dallas. With Dončić orchestrating the offense and Irving providing veteran scoring punch, Flagg will have the luxury of easing into his role without the crushing pressure of immediately carrying a franchise.

Green knows that dynamic well. Drafted 35th overall by the Golden State Warriors in 2012, Green blossomed into a core championship piece alongside Steph Curry, Klay Thompson, and later Kevin Durant. His evolution illustrates how situation, fit, and opportunity can shape careers.

“I ain’t knocking the kid,” Green emphasized. “I’m just saying timing and situation matter. Dallas got their guy, and Cooper Flagg walked into the best rookie setup I’ve seen in years.”

NBA veterans, analysts, and fans have since dissected Green’s take. Some agreed, pointing to past No. 1 picks like Anthony Edwards, Paolo Banchero, or Cade Cunningham, who entered rebuilding franchises and carried heavy burdens from day one.

Others argue Flagg would’ve thrived regardless of destination, given his rare combination of size, skill, and mentality.

Former Duke teammate and current NBA guard Tyrese Proctor falls in the latter camp.

“Coop could’ve gone anywhere and made noise,” Proctor said. “But yeah, being with Luka and Kyrie—that’s next level. He’s built for the moment.”

Meanwhile, Dončić expressed excitement over adding Flagg to the Mavericks’ championship aspirations.

“Cooper’s special,” Dončić told reporters. “You see it in his defense, his energy, his IQ. He makes winning plays. I think our team just got a lot better.”

The Mavericks’ front office agrees, with GM Nico Harrison calling Flagg “the missing piece” to their championship puzzle. Harrison also praised Flagg’s background at Duke as a proving ground that prepared him for the NBA’s spotlight.

For Duke fans, Flagg’s rapid ascent reinforces the program’s reputation for developing NBA-ready talent. Following in the footsteps of Zion Williamson, Jayson Tatum, and Kyrie Irving, Flagg represents the latest Blue Devil to captivate both college and professional basketball.

Yet Green’s remarks serve as a reminder that even elite prospects benefit from timing, roster context, and franchise stability.

“Don’t twist it—Cooper earned everything,” Green concluded. “But even the greatest players need the right team around them. Dallas got lucky, and so did he.”

As summer league tips off and Flagg prepares to make his professional debut, all eyes will be on how the former Blue Devil integrates with a Mavericks squad hungry for hardware.

The league may be divided on the role luck played, but one thing’s certain—Cooper Flagg’s NBA journey begins under the brightest of lights, with championship expectations from day one. And for a player wired like Flagg, that’s exactly where he wants to be.