Dwight Howard sends message to Cooper Flagg ahead of the 2025 NBA Draft

Before even stepping onto an NBA court, 18-year-old Cooper Flagg is already becoming one of the most talked-about names in professional basketball.

The Duke standout is widely projected to be the No. 1 pick in the 2025 NBA Draft, but with great hype comes harsh scrutiny-and some of it has come from NBA legends themselves.

Carmelo Anthony, a respected veteran with over a decade of league experience, recently voiced doubts about Flagg's readiness. On his 7PM in Brooklyn podcast, Anthony said Flagg "doesn't do anything great," pointing to late-game turnovers and missed shots as weaknesses in the young forward's game.

It was a strong critique-one that ignited debate across basketball media and social channels.

But not everyone is ready to dismiss Flagg's future.

Howard and George offer reassurance-and a reality check

Dwight Howard, a former No. 1 overall pick himself, came to Flagg's defense with grounded wisdom. Speaking to TMZ Sports at the NBA Draft Combine in Brooklyn, Howard offered advice rooted in experience.

"Just go hoop, enjoy the games. Don't let the politics take away the ion ... and have fun," he said.

These weren't empty words. Howard knows what it's like to carry expectations at 18-he was drafted out of high school in 2004 and went on to become an eight-time All-Star and three-time Defensive Player of the Year.

Howard didn't dispute Anthony's critique entirely but provided context that many critics overlook.

"He hasn't even made it into the NBA yet," Howard pointed out.

"If he's already good at a lot of things now and he's got a chance to master these things by the time he gets older, he'll be fine."

Howard's perspective is clear: development takes time, and no player-no matter how hyped-enters the league fully formed. That's a message Flagg may need to hear as the pressure continues to mount.

Paul George, another nine-time All-Star and one of the most respected two-way players in the league, also chimed in on Flagg's potential-this time with unfiltered praise.

On his podcast, George predicted big things for the future NBA player.

"I think he's going to be an All-Star... one of the best players our league has seen." George praised Flagg's length, instincts, and all-around skill set, echoing the sentiments of many scouts who see the young forward as a generational talent.

Though concerns about Flagg's clutch performance may have some merit, his raw abilities and high ceiling are hard to ignore. His defensive tenacity, ing vision, and feel for the game already stand out-even before draft night.

With the Dallas Mavericks holding the No. 1 pick in 2025, Flagg appears to be their top target. For now, the debates will continue, but one thing is certain: Cooper Flagg is entering the NBA with more than talent-he's entering with the full weight of expectation. Whether he rises to meet it may depend as much on mindset as on skill.