On the latest episode of “The Kevin O’Connor Show,” the possibility of Cooper Flagg, the consensus No. 1 overall pick and Maine native, joining the Boston Celtics was discussed. Boston utilized some of its interview slots at the NBA Draft Combine to meet with Cooper Flagg, as well as Tre Johnson (a projected top-five pick), despite not holding a pick near the top of this year’s draft. Teams are limited to 13 interviews at the combine.
Tre Johnson openly stated that the Celtics interviewed him at the draft combine. Multiple sources confirm that the Celtics also interviewed Cooper Flagg. While this does not indicate they will trade up into the top 10, it is considered intriguing.
The Dallas Mavericks hold the No. 1 pick this year. The discussion revolved around the hypothetical scenario: Would Boston trade Jaylen Brown (a recent Finals MVP) to move up for Flagg? What would Dallas’s response be? And would Flagg or his camp attempt to “pull an Eli Manning” by refusing to play for the Mavs to secure a spot in Boston?
The conversation speculated about Boston calling Dallas GM Nico Harrison to offer Jaylen Brown and inquiring about the number of first-round picks required. The question was raised whether Dallas and their decision-making unit would even consider such an offer.
While big trades for the No. 1 pick, especially for a generational prospect, are rare, the hosts noted that it only takes a few phone calls—and possibly some leverage from the player’s side—to initiate something dramatic.
For the full discussion, tune into “The Kevin O’Connor Show” on Apple, Spotify, or YouTube.