The Dallas Mavericks are navigating turmoil on and off the court, and this year’s first-overall pick, Cooper Flagg, is right in the middle of it. While trying to find his footing, Flagg has leaned on the team’s veterans for advice. He recently highlighted one teammate in particular who has been a crucial mentor during a challenging start to his career.
What Did Cooper Flagg Say About His Veteran Teammate?
While speaking to the media after the Mavericks’ latest game, Flagg praised center Daniel Gafford and discussed their relationship. Flagg said, “Gafford has been huge for me. He’s just such a good guy off the court. Has a great personality, he’s a great person. He’s somebody that I know I can go talk to about anything.” Flagg added, “When your teammates have your back like that, it helps you a lot.”
That support was on display after Dallas secured a much-needed home win, defeating the Portland Trail Blazers 138-133 in overtime. The victory improved the Mavericks’ record to 4-10 on the season, which currently has them sitting 13th in the Western Conference standings.
In the victory, Flagg had one of the best games of his young career, scoring 21 points on 9-for-16 shooting from the field. He also grabbed eight rebounds and recorded five assists without a single turnover. In the process, he made NBA history as the youngest player to have two blocks and a steal in a game. For his part, Gafford also had a big night, contributing 20 points on a highly efficient 6-for-8 shooting.
Flagg credited Gafford for offering encouragement after he scored only two points in the first half. According to Flagg, Gafford told him to be more aggressive, and he listened, providing the spark that helped the Mavericks secure the victory. On the season, Flagg is now averaging 15.6 points, 6.7 rebounds, and 3.2 assists.
— Dallas Mavericks (@dallasmavs) November 17, 2025
A decline in morale is natural for most rookies at some point during the season, especially on a losing team. However, the pressure on Flagg to perform is amplified by factors outside his control. While any first-overall pick faces hype, Flagg is under intense scrutiny because he was projected as a generational talent since his high school days.
Former Mavericks General Manager Nico Harrison magnified that pressure before Flagg was even on the team by trading away franchise cornerstone Luka Doncic. This move ultimately led to Harrison losing his job. As a result, Flagg now faces external pressure from some fans to become a Doncic-level player sooner rather than later.
Flagg’s confidence may have also been shaken when Head Coach Jason Kidd experimented with him at point guard to start the season, only to end the trial after the early returns were not great. As the team struggles, questions about the future are already surfacing. While there is speculation the Mavericks could enter a full rebuild, Gafford’s leadership could make him a key veteran to keep around, especially as his relationship with Flagg strengthens. Gafford’s three-year, $54.3 million extension is set to begin next season.
At a minimum, Flagg’s public endorsement of Gafford as a leader should improve Gafford’s stock around the NBA.
