Former NBA champion Tony Allen shared a strong opinion regarding Cooper Flagg’s potential as a professional basketball player, challenging the popular Kevin Durant comparison in Cooper Flagg prediction discussions. Speaking on May 14 during a clip by Grind City Media, Allen expressed skepticism about Flagg’s ability to transform an NBA franchise like Durant has.
Allen told the New York Post’s Bryan Fonseca that he does not see Durant’s impact in Flagg’s game.
“I don’t think Cooper Flagg is going to turn your franchise around like that,”
Allen said.
“I’m serious. … I ain’t seeing KD. I’m just not seeing all that.”
Comparing Flagg to Andrei Kirilenko Instead of Kevin Durant
Instead of comparing Flagg to Durant, Allen suggested a different NBA player who better fits Flagg’s style and potential ceiling. He identified former forward Andrei Kirilenko as a closer parallel. Kirilenko spent 13 seasons in the NBA and was chosen as an All-Star once, noted Allen as a benchmark for Flagg.
“He going to be a one-time All-Star,” Allen added. “I don’t see it, bro. Just not hyped on these Duke kids.”
—Tony Allen, Former NBA Guard and Champion
Allen’s own career highlights add weight to his evaluation. Known for his defensive prowess rather than scoring, Allen was a critical part of the Boston Celtics’ 2008 championship team, playing alongside Hall of Famers Paul Pierce, Kevin Garnett, and Ray Allen. His defensive intensity was most remembered through his numerous battles with Kobe Bryant, and he earned six All-Defensive team selections. The Memphis Grizzlies honored him by retiring his No. 9 jersey after he spent half of his 14 NBA seasons with the team.
Other Executives Draw Comparisons Between Flagg and Kawhi Leonard
While Allen dismisses the Kevin Durant comparison in Cooper Flagg prediction talks, other basketball insiders suggest a different player as a frame of reference. Several scouts and executives see similarities between Flagg and Kawhi Leonard, a two-time NBA Finals MVP known for two-way versatility and defensive skill.
“The best comp I’ve heard from our scouts is prime Kawhi Leonard,” a general manager told ESPN on March 21. “Now, that’s not perfect because they are very different players at the same age, but it’s the one I like in terms of their style of play, two-way versatility, passing and the fact that they can both guard point guards, wings and big men.”
—Western Conference General Manager
Kawhi Leonard, currently a six-time NBA All-Star with two championships, is widely respected for his ability to impact the game on both ends of the floor. This comparison highlights Flagg’s defensive potential and versatility, albeit with differences from Durant’s offensive dominance.
Flagg’s Future with the Dallas Mavericks
Cooper Flagg is expected to be the first overall pick in the 2025 NBA Draft, with the Dallas Mavericks strongly positioned to select him. NBA insider Marc Stein reported recently that Dallas has no intention of trading this pick as they aim to build a contending roster. This development places Flagg in an environment focused on immediate success, with expectations for him to contribute meaningfully.
Given the different perspectives—from Allen’s measured skepticism to executive comparisons to Leonard—Flagg’s early career will be closely watched as he joins a team eager to compete at a high level next season. His performance could shape how these varying predictions are judged over time.