Dallas prioritizes defensive versatility over backcourt depth by potentially pairing Cooper Flagg with Michigan’s national champion forward, a move that could solidify a switchable, positionless foundation for the future.
The Dallas Mavericks could take an interesting approach in the 2026 NBA Draft as they continue shaping the roster around Cooper Flagg. While many might expect Dallas to target a guard, one recent projection instead connected the Mavericks to versatile forward who just won a national championship.
In a recent mock draft by Cameron Salerno of CBS Sports, he has the Mavs taking Michigan star Yaxel Lendeborg with the eighth pick. It would certainly be a different direction, but one that could make plenty of sense for where the Mavericks appear to be headed.
"If you asked me today who is going to be the player who goes higher than expected on draft night, it's Lendeborg," Salerno writes. "The knock on Lendeborg is that he is an older prospect. That shouldn't matter because at this point, he might be the best overall player available. The Mavs need a point guard, but taking Lendeborg would be worth the swing."
Dallas has already invested heavily in offensive creation and star power. Because of that, adding another athletic, defensive-minded forward could ultimately be more valuable than selecting a ball-dominant guard. Lendeborg’s game fits the type of modern role player nearly every contender is searching for.
He averaged 15 points and just under seven rebounds per game in his one year with the Wolverines. Lendeborg was also able to get it done in the tournament with three games of over 20 points.
Rather than needing constant touches to stay effective, Lendeborg contributes within the flow of the game, something that would be important alongside high-usage stars.
That could make him an ideal fit next to Flagg.
The Mavericks appear focused on building a roster built around versatility, athleticism, and defensive flexibility. Pairing Flagg with another long, switchable forward could give Dallas a dangerous defensive foundation for years to come.
The NBA continues moving toward positionless basketball, and players capable of doing a little bit of everything carry significant value. Lendeborg fits that mold as a forward who can defend in space, play with pace, and contribute without needing plays designed specifically for him.
There is still plenty of time for the draft process to evolve, but the fit already feels logical. Even if many initially expect the Mavericks to pursue guard help, adding another versatile forward like Lendeborg could be something for Dallas to think about.