Cooper Flagg: The Next Big Thing in the NBA Draft
As the 2025 NBA Draft approaches, all eyes are on Cooper Flagg, the projected No. 1 pick. This young phenom is leading the Duke Blue Devils into the Final Four against the Houston Cougars on Saturday at 8:49 p.m. ET on CBS. With his exceptional play, the question on everyone’s mind is: Which NBA players, both past and present, does Flagg best compare to?
To get a better understanding, ESPN reached out to NBA executives and scouts to gather insights on Flagg’s developing offensive skills, versatility, and defensive prowess. Player comparisons, while often divisive, are a staple in the scouting world. They help set expectations and envision the roles a player might grow into.
One Western Conference executive shared, “I want to know, worst-case scenario, if we’re using a pick on this guy, give me someone who made the league who he reminds you of. It builds the case to say why he’s an NBA player. You can give me two guys, this player with a side of that player, even a guy from an older era. It’s an easier sell when you can say this guy reminds me of that guy.”
Flagg’s first-team All-American season makes him a challenging case study because elite prospects have special qualities that set them apart. The diversity of their skill sets often calls to mind several different players at once. Here are five players whom NBA scouts are leaning into as they evaluate Flagg. These comparisons are designed to illustrate his range of outcomes and highlight his strengths on both sides of the ball.
- Ceiling comp: Kawhi Leonard
Flagg’s defensive capabilities and potential to become a two-way force in the NBA draw comparisons to Kawhi Leonard. A Western Conference scout noted, “[Flagg]’s really good defensively and can be a game changer on that end pretty much immediately with his size, effort, and IQ. He’s always been a very good defender and the offense is coming along. It’s a very similar path to the one Kawhi was on early in his NBA career.”
Leonard’s evolution into an effective perimeter scorer and defensive powerhouse would be a fantastic outcome for Flagg. Both players rely on balance and footwork in the midrange, make plays for teammates, and prefer attacking the basket over settling for 3-point shots. However, Leonard’s once-in-a-generation developmental arc makes him a tricky comp. Flagg is ahead of where Leonard was entering the NBA in terms of offensive comfort level and on-court success.
- Floor comp: Lamar Odom
Using Lamar Odom as a low-end comparison captures the intrinsic value of Flagg’s versatility. Odom’s ability to function as a point forward and make plays for teammates was a key part of his success. Flagg’s potential to be a point forward who also changes the game defensively points to his exceptional ceiling. However, Flagg’s developmental trajectory is on track to surpass Odom’s production in the NBA.
- In-his-prime comp: Jayson Tatum
Flagg and Tatum share similarities in their offensive profiles and potential to become high-usage players. Tatum’s balanced, high-volume offensive profile with the Celtics shows how Flagg could grow into a similar role. Flagg’s superior passing and defensive impact set him apart from Tatum, who has improved defensively but was never known for his defense as a prospect.
- A second-star comp: Scottie Pippen
This comparison underscores Flagg’s potential to be a second star alongside another elite player. Pippen’s role as a do-it-all player alongside Michael Jordan highlights Flagg’s impact in every area. While Flagg’s feel and perimeter skills are well ahead of Pippen, his offensive gifts might be best suited in a similar fashion.
- A left-field comp: Andrei Kirilenko
Flagg’s defensive instincts and playmaking abilities draw comparisons to Kirilenko, who was one of the better defenders upon his arrival to the NBA. However, Flagg’s offensive aptitude and passing ability make him a very different player. While Kirilenko was a prolific shot blocker, Flagg’s impact on both ends of the floor is expected to surpass those numbers.
As the NBA Draft approaches, the excitement surrounding Cooper Flagg continues to build. With comparisons to some of the game’s greats, Flagg’s potential to become a franchise player is undeniable. Whether he becomes the next Kawhi Leonard or carves out his own unique path, one thing is certain: Cooper Flagg is a name to watch in the NBA.
Originally Written by: Jeremy Woo
