Former NBA Champion Matt Barnes impressed with Cooper Flagg's potential

As the Dallas Mavericks' prized rookie Cooper Flagg edges closer to his NBA debut, former NBA champion Matt Barnes was vocal about his belief in the 18-year-old. Flagg has been widely touted as the most hyped American prospect since Zion Williamson’s 2019 debut, and his entry into the league has fans and pundits alike watching closely.

Barnes expressed his fondness for Flagg's game. He explained how witnessing his skills and abilities on the hardwood was something he looked forward to whenever he had the opportunity to watch the former Duke star. 

“I absolutely love Cooper Flagg," Barnes said to Kevin Gray Jr. of DLLS Mavs. "I coach my kids in AAU, so I got to see him for one season, and what stood out to me the most was his effort and energy. I came from an era where effort was necessary, and he has one of the best efforts I’ve seen on both sides of the ball. What excites me most is his defensive prowess. He can be someone in today’s NBA who can guard any position. On offense, he is freakishly athletic and continues to improve his jumper. I am really excited for his future.”

Barnes’ praise isn’t limited to individual potential; he also sees Flagg as a strong fit in Dallas given the team’s structure and expectations. The Mavericks, with seasoned veterans and leadership, could provide an environment where Flagg’s talents are maximized.

Expectations, pressures, & what Matt Barnes thinks the Mavericks must deliver

While speaking positively to Kevin Gray Jr., Matt Barnes also acknowledged that the Dallas Mavericks organization has responsibility. He commented on whether Dallas “deserves” Cooper Flagg, implying the franchise must elevate its standards now that it holds a prized young asset.

"Somehow, someway, that was a favor because Dallas wasn’t a bad team; they shouldn’t have been the number one team to get the pick," Barnes elaborated. “On the flip side, it’s so important as a young player to go to an organization that’s stable, has veterans, has great leadership. The ownership of the Dallas Mavericks has to show that now, their job is not to f**k it up because they’ve done some questionable things in their short time [since] taking over from Mark Cuban.”

Barnes believes the burden is shared: not only does Flagg have to perform, but the Mavericks must prove they can support development, maintain stability, and meet expectations. He indicated that making the playoffs is almost a baseline requirement, warning that failure to do so could lead to “uncomfortable conversations” within the organization.