The NBA Draft Lottery is happening on Monday night, and all eyes are on Cooper Flag, the standout prospect of the event.
Since LeBron James, Flag might be the most promising U.S. player with his unique combination of size and adaptability, drawing comparisons to stars like Scottie Pippen, Jason Tatum, and Grant Hill. Given his potential, it makes sense that many teams are eager to secure him during the lottery.
Check out the latest mock drafts before the lottery. We’ve also ranked the best and worst potential teams for Flag. Thankfully, there’s a solid narrative for each lottery team that could have a shot on Monday night. So, get ready, because we’ve covered all the theories for you.
Utah Jazz
The NBA needs to move past its “big market” bias, and placing Flag in Utah would help do just that. This also aligns with the Jazz owners’ plans to expand the arena, aiming to enhance Salt Lake City’s appeal as a sports hub, similar to how Wemby bolstered the Spurs’ status.
Washington Wizards
The Wizards have been struggling, especially when compared to larger markets. Flag could change that narrative. It would be an inspiring story for this team, along with the Commanders, achieving resurgence together, and the NBA should capitalize on that momentum.
Charlotte Hornets
Adam Silver met with Hornets’ owners at the end of the season to discuss arena expansion. The NBA has historically favored Charlotte, even hosting the All-Star Game there in 2019. Flag could be just the piece to elevate this team, especially since Charlotte has missed the No. 1 pick several times before.
New Orleans Pelicans
There are a couple of big factors here. Following Derek Kerr’s retirement, the Saints are facing challenges. Remember when the Pelicans got Anthony Davis shortly after the Chris Paul trade? Similar scenarios could play out again.
Philadelphia 76ers
The “too big to fail” concept seems to fit here. The NBA appears keen to direct Flag to Philadelphia to revive the Sixers’ fortunes. With uncertainty surrounding Joel Embiid’s health, this could be a strategic move to build future star combinations with players like Jared McCain and Tyrese Maxey.
Brooklyn Nets
It’s simply not acceptable for teams in such a massive media market to struggle. The Knicks have finally found their footing, and the NBA needs a rivalry like that between the Nets and Knicks. Acquiring Flag would give Brooklyn the star power it desperately needs.
Toronto Raptors
With the current tensions in global politics, the NBA might want to foster goodwill with the Canadian government. The franchise’s origins link back to Vince Carter, and Flag would continue that legacy, coming from a respected program in Duke.
San Antonio Spurs
This is almost an obvious move. Flag and Wemby together could be a marketing dream — a new “Big 2” in Texas, something that could really capture the attention of fans.
Houston Rockets
This presents a chance to elevate an already strong Rockets squad into the spotlight. It could also disrupt the Mavericks’ plans, allowing them to quietly shift focus towards Las Vegas.
Portland Trail Blazers
Trading Damian Lillard to the Bucks changed the landscape for the NBA, and now it seems Portland needs to make a significant move of their own, giving them a premier player to build around.
Dallas Mavericks
It’s quite straightforward here. Nico Harrison introduced Luka Dončić to the Lakers, and it seems fitting that the NBA would be inclined to connect Cooper Flag with the Mavericks as well.
Chicago Bulls
As a major market team on the verge of victory, this could also be a way to capture the Catholic audience by providing them with a star they can rally around.
Atlanta Hawks
Now is the time for the Hawks to seize the moment. With the Falcons and Braves struggling, transforming the Hawks into a powerhouse would establish them as a leading brand in the Southeast.
