Mar 3, 2025; Durham, North Carolina, USA; Duke Blue Devils forward Cooper Flagg (2) reacts as he heads to the bench during the second half against the Wake Forest Demon Deacons at Cameron Indoor Stadium. The Blue Devils won 93-60. Mandatory Credit: Rob Kinnan-Imagn Images / Rob Kinnan-Imagn Images

Shock gradually subsided Tuesday, replaced by realization. It actually happened. Dallas has the first pick of the June 25 NBA draft. Lord willing, Cooper Flagg will become a Maverick in six weeks. Among many upsides to owning the first pick of a draft with a consensus best player is the ability to speak and plan with virtual absolutes.

Flagg has been the obvious No. 1 pick all season, but Harrison's decision to trade the 25-year-old Dončić for a 31-year-old Anthony Davis suggested that Dallas was all-in on the present. Had that been the case, Dallas could have offered Flagg for a number of veteran All-Stars, most notably Giannis Antetokounmpo should he become available.