By flipping the ninth pick for Houston’s versatile big man, Dallas could surround Cooper Flagg with an All-Star playmaker and instantly transform into a contender.
The Dallas Mavericks face a pivotal offseason after Cooper Flagg's impressive rookie campaign, and one recent trade proposal suggests the franchise could make a major move to accelerate its path back into contention.
Dallas Hoops Journal recently floated a couple of players the team could trade for, and one of them was Houston Rockets star Alperen Sengun, and they would use the No. 9 overall pick.
At first glance, the idea makes plenty of sense.
Sengun has developed into one of the NBA's most productive young big men since entering the league in 2021. Still just 23 years old, he has already established himself as an All-Star caliber player and one of the focal points of Houston's offense. His combination of scoring, rebounding, and playmaking has made him one of the league's most unique centers.
For the Mavericks, adding a player of Sengun's caliber would immediately raise the ceiling of the roster. Rather than waiting for another rookie selected at No. 9 to develop, Dallas would be acquiring a proven young star who could grow alongside Flagg for years to come.
The appeal goes beyond talent alone.
The Mavericks are in an interesting position entering the offseason. While Flagg's emergence has given the franchise a cornerstone to build around, Dallas also has an opportunity to be aggressive. The No. 9 pick represents one of the team's most valuable assets, and the front office could choose to use it in a deal for established talent instead of adding another young prospect.
According to the proposed framework, Dallas would send the No. 9 overall pick, the Lakers' 2029 first-round pick, and additional draft compensation to Houston in exchange for Sengun and control of the Mavericks' own 2029 first-round selection, which is currently owned by the Rockets.
It's an idea that would certainly generate debate.
Sengun is a highly skilled offensive player, but he is not a traditional floor-spacing center. Any pairing between him and Flagg would require Dallas to carefully construct the roster around them.
But since Sengun is such a capable passer at his position at six assists per game this past season, it would take a lot of the playmaking responsibilities off of Flagg's younger shoulders.
If Sengun were to become available, it could be something for the Mavericks to consider instead of drafting at the ninth spot.
