Mavericks just made their trade stance on Cooper Flagg unmistakably clear

Anthony Davis has been the center of trade rumors recently, as the Dallas Mavericks have made it clear that they are open to trading the big man. This is something that can't be said, though, about rookie Cooper Flagg. The Dallas rookie is a pivotal part of the team's future, and it's clear Dallas is ready to start building around him (subscription required).

According to Marc Stein of the Stein Line, "The Mavericks are believed to be willing to discuss trades for anyone on the roster not named Cooper Flagg and Kyrie Irving."

This further highlights the notion that Dallas is ready to start the Flagg era. They believe he has all the intangibles to lead the Mavs for the upcoming years. It's obvious the Mavs want to make him their long-term star, something they regret not doing with Luka Doncic.

Dallas knows they can't reverse the headache caused by trading Doncic for Davis, Max Christie, and a 2029 first-round pick. However, they understand that making Flagg their focal point might help ease some of the past pain.

Mavericks make it known that Cooper Flagg is untouchable

The good news for Dallas is that if they want to trade Davis and begin focusing on Flagg, there are a handful of Eastern Conference teams showing interest in the big man. One team highly connected to Davis is the Atlanta Hawks. They have made Davis their prime trade target after getting rid of Trae Young.

Dallas could work out a deal with Hawks, assuming Atlanta includes former No. 1 pick Zaccharie Risacher or the Pelicans’ unprotected 2026 first-round draft pick in a package. So, Dallas can hope Davis' recent surge in production changes the Hawks' mind in including one of the assets mentioned above.

Plus, as mentioned, Atlanta isn't the only team that values Davis. It seems that the rest of the NBA highly values him, as this is something Dallas shouldn't take lightly. The Mavs could obtain a valuable package for Davis and begin their rebuilding future with Flagg if they play their cards right.

Flagg has shown he is ready for the next level, as he has done everything Dallas has asked of him. For example, coach Jason Kidd has used the rookie in a variety of roles, and every time the rookie has stepped up to the plate. He has played every position from point guard to small forward and power forward. His game is flexible; Dallas can move him around however they please.

Not to mention, last month he won Rookie of the Month for the second time this season. The award is a statement of his skills on the court. Flagg can score from all levels, as he is an elite scorer who is destined to become one of the top finishers in the NBA one day. He puts on a show every time he dunks and has recently improved his 3-point shooting, something that'll be deadly in the future.

Last night, Flagg showcased his talents against the Utah Jazz. He finished the game with a near triple-double, as he had 26 points, 10 rebounds, and eight assists. His production was the highlight of the night in a contested two-point victory by Utah.

Basically, Flagg's surge in production supports the idea that the Mavericks should make him their future and make him untouchable in trade talks. So, now all Dallas needs to do is find a suitor for Davis to let the Flagg era begin.