Embiid IN, Cooper Flagg OUT: Mavs tipped to trade No.1 Draft pick for $192 MILLION star
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Embiid IN, Cooper Flagg OUT: Mavs tipped to trade No.1 Draft pick for $192 MILLION star

David Ben 21:58 - 24.05.2025

NBA fans could be left stunned as Mavs could trade No.1 Pick for a former MVP.

The Dallas Mavericks could be cooking up one of the NBA offseason's most explosive storylines.

The latest whispers out of Dallas suggest the team may trade their coveted No. 1 overall pick in a blockbuster deal to land none other than $192 million man, Joel Embiid.

Yes, you read that right. The reigning MVP from just two seasons ago could be on the move, and Dallas appears ready to go all-in. 

Sixers center Joel Embiid received his Most Valuable Player award in the NBA for 2023 | Getty

According to Fadeaway World’s Eddie Bitar, a proposed trade would see the Mavericks send the No. 1 pick along with Klay Thompson, Daniel Gafford and P.J. Washington to the Philadelphia 76ers in exchange for Embiid and two 2031 draft picks. 

The potential trade is a stunner, with massive implications for both franchises.

Cooper Flagg the future? Or Embiid the now?

Cooper Flagg
Cooper Flagg is expected to go no.1 on Draft day | Getty Images

Cooper Flagg, 18, is widely considered a generational talent, the kind of player teams usually build around for a decade.

But the Mavericks are clearly in “win-now” mode.

 Luka Dončić and Anthony Davis are already in place. 

Kyrie Irving, though recovering from a torn ACL, remains part of the team’s long-term vision.

 Adding a healthy Embiid to that trio, and you have a title favourite.

Joel Embiid
Joel Embiid | Getty

But there’s a risk – the 31-year-old Cameroonian who is currently on a 3-year contract with the 76ers worth $192 million, has struggled with injuries throughout his career.

 In 2024-25, he played just 19 games before undergoing knee surgery. 

Joel Embiid
Joel Embiid | Imago

Is he still worth the gamble? Bitar argues yes: “If healthy, Embiid’s impact could be transformative, elevating the Mavericks to contender status.”

Meanwhile, in Philly, the move could signal a full reset.

Cooper Flagg
Cooper Flagg is the no.1 pick in the 2025 NBA Draft | Getty Images

 Cooper Flagg would headline a young core alongside Tyrese Maxey. 

While veteran additions like Thompson and Washington would provide guidance and experience during the rebuild.

Whatever the Mavericks choose, it's certainly going to shake the league.