Kyrie Irving's anticipated return next year could be a game-changer for Cooper Flagg's development. Having a top-tier point guard like Irving orchestrating the offense will open up opportunities for Flagg, who has already impressed with a stellar rookie season despite facing challenges in getting open looks.
However, with Irving turning 34 and recovering from a torn ACL, he isn't a long-term solution alongside the 19-year-old phenom. Enter Kansas guard Darryn Peterson, the standout prospect in college basketball, who might just be that future cornerstone.
Peterson's freshman year at Kansas has been a mix of brilliance and mystery. On the court, he's been electric, averaging 20 points and shooting over 43% from beyond the arc.
Yet, it's his time off the court that raises eyebrows. He's logged under 25 minutes in seven of his 15 games, including a mere 18 minutes against Oklahoma State, a situation that Coach Bill Self admits is "certainly a concern."
Injuries are always a worry, but the bigger question for Self and the fans of potential suitors like the Mavericks is whether these issues stem from something beyond physical cramps. Could it be a matter of Peterson's willingness to play?
Peterson's potential fit with the Mavericks is tantalizing, assuming everything aligns. The scrutiny that comes with being a top draft pick is intense, reminiscent of concerns about Anthony Edwards' passion for the game.
But Peterson's case feels unique. If the cramps are legitimate, it's a troubling injury outlook.
If not, and he's choosing to sit out, that raises different red flags.
We've seen similar scenarios before, like Shaedon Sharpe at Kentucky, who sat out to prepare for the NBA Draft and now thrives with the Trail Blazers. Still, the thought of the Mavericks using their first-round pick post-Cooper Flagg on a player who might voluntarily bench himself is nerve-wracking.
Cooper Flagg is destined for stardom, regardless of his supporting cast. But when building around a young talent, missing on top-five picks can derail progress.
Darryn Peterson might not be a "miss" - he could evolve into the best guard in basketball within five years. Yet, his enigmatic season at Kansas is cause for concern.
If the Mavericks secure a top-three pick, they'll need to weigh these issues carefully, be they injury-related, effort-related, or otherwise. These questions will be impossible to overlook.