Following Monday’s NBA Draft Lottery and growing reports that Milwaukee Bucks star Giannis Antetokounmpo is “open-minded” about a potential trade, the Dallas Mavericks suddenly find themselves in a uniquely powerful position. With the No. 1 overall pick in the upcoming NBA Draft, Dallas could become a serious suitor for the two-time MVP — if it chooses to go all in.
Cooper Flagg, the standout freshman forward from Duke and the consensus No. 1 prospect, is widely considered a future franchise player. He was named both the 2025 Associated Press and Naismith College Player of the Year. For a team like the Milwaukee Bucks — should they decide to pivot toward a rebuild — the opportunity to land Flagg could be an ideal starting point.
That scenario would require Milwaukee to make the decision to trade Antetokounmpo, the face of its franchise for over a decade. But if that door opens, Dallas may be in a position to offer the league’s most competitive trade package.
Draft capital and young talent boost Mavs’ trade assets
The Mavericks possess more than just the top pick. Dallas can also offer multiple future first-round picks and swaps, including pick swaps in 2026, 2031 and 2032, along with the Lakers’ unprotected 2029 first-rounder and their own pick in 2031. Those assets, combined with the No. 1 pick, would give the Mavericks considerable leverage in trade negotiations.
In addition, Dallas has a core of promising young players that could appeal to a team entering a rebuild. Max Christie, Daniel Gafford, Derrick Lively II, P.J. Washington and Jaden Hardy all provide youth, versatility and developmental upside. While salaries would need to match in any deal, the Mavericks have the depth to construct a package that balances win-now value for Dallas and future potential for Milwaukee.
Though the exact asking price for Antetokounmpo remains unknown, many believe it would take the No. 1 pick, one or two young players and additional draft compensation to spark serious interest from the Milwaukee Bucks.
Adding a young player like Cooper Flagg and additional young talent from Dallas to Milwaukee’s existing group of emerging players could significantly accelerate a potential rebuild. The Bucks already feature several promising contributors, including rotation players Andre Jackson Jr., Kevin Porter Jr. and A.J. Green. Forward Chris Livingston has also shown flashes of potential during his G League stints and could develop into a reliable piece with a larger role.
A trade package centered around the No. 1 pick and young Mavericks players would complement this group and provide Milwaukee with a strong developmental core. Not only could this roster bring youthful energy and excitement, but it would also offer a foundation capable of exciting playoff runs like the Bucks did in Giannis Antetokounmpo's earlier years.
Flagg, who grew up in the small town of Newport, Maine, may also be more open than most top prospects to embracing a smaller market like Milwaukee — a factor that could work in the Bucks’ favor as they weigh long-term roster decisions.
Giannis a natural fit in Dallas’ vision
Mavericks general manager Nico Harrison has emphasized a philosophy of building for both immediate success and long-term stability, which was his reasoning for the decision to acquire Anthony Davis from the Los Angeles Lakers in exchange for Luka Doncić in February.
“I believe that defense wins championships,” Harrison said following that trade. “We’re built to win now and in the future.”
Adding Antetokounmpo — arguably the league’s best two-way player — would firmly place the franchise in championship contention. His defensive prowess, offensive efficiency and playoff experience align closely with the identity Harrison has publicly embraced.
Familiarity with Kidd could ease transition
If Antetokounmpo were to leave Milwaukee, Dallas may offer one of the most comfortable landing spots. Head coach Jason Kidd was Antetokounmpo’s first NBA coach, overseeing his development from 2014 to 2018. The two share a strong bond, and a reunion could provide added incentive for the 12-year veteran to consider a move.
Antetokounmpo has spent his entire career with the Milwaukee Bucks, winning an NBA title in 2021 and cementing himself as one of the league’s premier players. Leaving would not come easily, but the combination of a familiar coach, a contending roster and organizational vision might be enough to sway him.
As of now, the Milwaukee Bucks have not given a clear direction for the offseason. However, if Milwaukee decides to pursue a rebuild, the Mavericks would be among the few teams positioned to make a serious and attractive offer.