BREAKING NEWS:Former Maverick Names the Perfect Signing for Dallas After Drafting Cooper Flagg
As the 2025 NBA Draft wraps up, the Dallas Mavericks have taken a bold step into a new era by selecting Cooper Flagg, the high-flying, versatile forward out of Duke, with their top pick. Flagg, widely regarded as a generational talent, is expected to make an immediate impact with his elite defense, basketball IQ, and improving offensive game. While the Mavericks have long been known for their dynamic backcourt led by Luka Dončić, the addition of Flagg signals a shift toward a more balanced roster. However, one former Maverick believes the team isn’t done yet — and he knows exactly who the perfect addition should be.
Former Dallas forward Shawn Marion, a key member of the Mavericks’ 2011 championship team, recently weighed in on the team’s direction following the Flagg pick. Speaking on a Dallas sports radio show, Marion praised the selection of Flagg but emphasized the need for another piece to truly elevate the Mavericks to title contention.
“Cooper is a game-changer,” Marion said. “But if Dallas really wants to make a deep playoff run — even compete for a championship in the next couple of years — they need a veteran, a proven two-way wing who can help lead and take pressure off Luka and the young guys. That’s why I think signing OG Anunoby would be perfect.”
Anunoby, who recently declined his player option with the New York Knicks and is set to become an unrestricted free agent, is one of the most coveted wings on the market. Known for his perimeter defense, catch-and-shoot ability, and playoff experience, Anunoby could slot in perfectly alongside Dončić and Flagg, giving the Mavericks a trio that blends youth, star power, and defensive intensity.
Marion pointed out that Anunoby’s ability to guard multiple positions would complement Flagg’s versatile defensive presence and ease the burden on Dončić, who often shoulders heavy offensive and playmaking duties.
“Luka needs someone who can guard the other team’s best player. Cooper’s gonna grow into that, but OG can do it now. That gives Luka freedom to do what he does best,” Marion explained.
Financially, the Mavericks would need to make some strategic moves to create cap space for Anunoby, likely involving trades or salary restructures. Still, the opportunity to sign a player of his caliber, especially with the momentum of drafting Flagg, might be too good to pass up.
With the excitement surrounding Flagg’s arrival and the prospect of a high-impact free agency, Dallas appears to be positioning itself not just for a competitive season, but potentially a championship-caliber future. As Shawn Marion put it, “Flagg is the future. But adding a guy like OG? That’s how you win now.”
