Paul Pierce Drops Surprising Pick for NBA Rookie of the Year — You Won’t Believe Who Made His List!

Is Cooper Flagg really the next big thing in the NBA—or just another hyped prospect destined for the usual rookie rollercoaster? When Paul Pierce, a man who’s danced on the biggest stages and hoisted championship trophies, stakes a claim that this young Duke phenom is a “lock for Rookie of the Year” and could even snag an All-Star nod in his very first season, you can bet your last dollar ears perk up. At just 18, Flagg’s already turned heads with a skill set that’s as sharp as a tack and a calmness on the court that belies his age. Toss in the fact that he’s landing with the Dallas Mavericks—a team far from rebuilding, stacked with vets like Anthony Davis and Kyrie Irving—and you start wondering: Is Dallas about to unveil its newest cornerstone? Buckle up; this rookie’s story may rewrite what we expect from first-year players.

Cooper Flagg has captured the NBA’s attention before stepping onto a professional court.

The 18-year-old Duke standout brings a polished skill set, composed approach, and versatility that has scouts calling him a generational prospect.

After being selected first overall by the Dallas Mavericks in the 2025 NBA Draft, Flagg has already emerged as a strong Rookie of the Year candidate.

Paul Pierce recently shared his bold prediction about the young forward’s immediate impact.

“My expectation for him? I think he’s a lock for Rookie Of The Year. I think he’s gonna help Dallas push for a playoff spot, and his ceiling as a rookie? He can actually be an all-star in his rookie year. That’s how good this kid is,” Pierce said on FS1’s SPEAK.

.@paulpierce34's expectations for Cooper Flagg:

"I think he's a lock for Rookie Of The Year, he's gonna help Dallas push for a playoff spot, and he can actually be an all-star his rookie year." pic.twitter.com/0cVNsglVFR

— Speak (@SpeakOnFS1) June 26, 2025

The former NBA champion’s confidence stems from what Flagg accomplished during his single college season.

The Duke forward averaged 19.2 points, 7.5 rebounds, 4.2 assists, and 1.4 blocks per game while earning National Player of the Year honors.

His two-way excellence helped guide the Blue Devils to a Final Four appearance.

What makes Flagg’s situation particularly favorable is the team he’s joining.

Unlike most top picks who land with rebuilding franchises, Flagg steps into a Dallas Mavericks organization that has most of its pieces positioned.

Playing alongside established stars like Anthony Davis and Kyrie Irving provides him with a supporting cast that can ease his transition to the NBA.

The Mavericks’ front office understands they’re working with a young talent who needs development time.

However, the belief within the organization remains clear that Flagg can contribute immediately while growing into a cornerstone player.

His court vision, defensive instincts, and ability to impact winning at multiple positions align perfectly with modern NBA requirements.

Whether he reaches All-Star status in year one remains to be seen, but early indicators suggest Flagg could indeed become Dallas’s next franchise cornerstone.

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