As the NBA calendar flips past All-Star Weekend, the Dallas Mavericks are back to business - and business, right now, is all about building the right ecosystem around Cooper Flagg. The 19-year-old phenom has already cemented his status as the face of the franchise, and now it’s on the Mavericks’ front office to find the right mix of talent to support his rise.
One potential path? Keep a close eye on Oklahoma City.
The Thunder, fresh off a title run in 2025, have two players who could be intriguing fits in Dallas: Lu Dort and Isaiah Hartenstein. Both are high-motor, no-nonsense contributors - the kind of guys who don’t just fill a stat sheet, but elevate a team’s identity. And with their contracts structured in a way that could make them available as early as 2026, the Mavericks would be wise to monitor how things unfold in OKC.
Let’s break down why these two could be ideal complements to Flagg - and why Dallas might want to pounce if the opportunity arises.
Lu Dort: Defensive Grit with a Growing Offensive Game
If there’s a blueprint for the modern NBA wing stopper, Dort checks just about every box. He’s physical, relentless, and consistently takes on the toughest defensive assignments without blinking. He earned a spot on the 2024-25 All-Defensive First Team, and it wasn’t just a nod to reputation - it was a reflection of nightly impact.
But Dort’s value doesn’t stop at defense. He’s evolved into a capable shooter, knocking down 41.2% of his threes last season and sitting at a solid 35% this year.
That kind of spacing is critical when you’re building around a player like Flagg, who thrives with room to operate and teammates who can stretch the floor. Dort’s ability to guard elite wings and still be a threat from deep makes him a two-way asset - the kind of player who helps you win playoff series.
Contractually, Dort is locked in through 2025-26, with a team option for 2026-27. That gives OKC some control, but also means the door could open sooner than later depending on how the Thunder want to manage their cap sheet.
Isaiah Hartenstein: The Connector at Center
While Dort brings perimeter toughness, Hartenstein offers something equally valuable in the frontcourt - versatility and high-IQ play from the five spot.
He’s averaging 10.6 points, 9.7 boards, and 3.6 assists on 63.5% shooting this season. Those aren’t gaudy numbers, but they tell the story of a player who contributes in all the right ways.
Hartenstein protects the rim, switches effectively in space, and facilitates offense from the high post. He’s not just a big body - he’s a connector, someone who can keep the ball moving and make smart reads under pressure.
That kind of skill set would fit snugly next to Flagg and Kyrie Irving in pick-and-roll situations. Whether it’s slipping screens, hitting cutters, or simply being in the right spot at the right time, Hartenstein’s feel for the game would give Dallas another layer of offensive complexity. And with Derek Lively II still working his way back from foot surgery, adding a center with Hartenstein’s profile would also provide much-needed depth and insurance.
Like Dort, Hartenstein’s deal includes a team option for 2026-27. So while OKC holds the cards for now, there’s a potential window for Dallas to make a move down the line.
Championship DNA and Culture Builders
What makes both Dort and Hartenstein especially appealing isn’t just their individual skill sets - it’s how they contribute to a winning culture. They were key pieces in OKC’s title run, and they understand what it takes to thrive in high-pressure situations. They play hard, compete on every possession, and hold teammates accountable through their effort.
Those are the kinds of traits that don’t always show up in the box score, but they matter - especially for a young star like Flagg who’s learning how to lead an NBA team. Surrounding him with veterans who know how to win and are willing to do the dirty work? That’s how you build a foundation that lasts.
These aren’t the blockbuster names that dominate headlines, but they’re the kind of moves that often separate contenders from pretenders. And while OKC may not be ready to move on from either player just yet, the NBA is nothing if not unpredictable.
So don’t be surprised if Dallas keeps one eye on the Thunder’s roster and another on the future of their own. Because when it comes to building around a talent like Flagg, every piece matters - especially the ones that bring grit, glue, and a little bit of championship gold.