NBA betting: two ways to bet on Cooper Flagg’s debut

The stage is set for Cooper Flagg’s NBA debut, and this one has the feel of more than a normal regular season opener.

All eyes are on Flagg, the No. 1 pick in the 2025 NBA Draft, as the Dallas Mavericks host the San Antonio Spurs on Wednesday (9:30 p.m. ET, ESPN).

Given where the odds are settled, what are the best bets to make on Duke’s versatile forward in his first NBA game against Victor Wembanyama and company?

Here are NBA betting experts Andre Snellings and Eric Moody with their favorites.

Note: Ratings as of publication date. For the most recent odds, visit ESPN BET.

More than 15.5 points (-120)

Flagg is a do-it-all prospect, but the lineup the team begins the season with will need him to be a consistent second scoring option behind Anthony Davis. The Mavericks are strong in the paint and have shooters in the backcourt, so they will look to Flagg to be their primary perimeter offense creator with Kyrie Irving sidelined. I expect Flagg to be aggressive as a scorer in his debut, especially against a Spurs team where his 6-foot-9 height is an advantage. The Spurs effectively start three guards, all 6-5 and under. Last season, the Spurs allowed 22.1 PPG to opposing small forwards, tied for 25th in the NBA. — Snellings

Cooper Flagg enters the season as the heavy favorite to win the NBA Rookie of the Year award. ESPN BET offers the opportunity to bet on Flagg or the land .

More than 25 points, rebounds and assists (-130)

Few rookies enter the league with more buzz than Flagg, and he is built to make an instant impact. With Irving sidelined, Flagg should function as a secondary playmaker and key scoring option alongside Davis. His all-around game, including efficient shooting, rebounding and defensive energy, gives him multiple opportunities to reach 25+ PRA. Facing a fast-paced Spurs team that ranked bottom 10 in defense last season, Flagg is well-positioned to fill up the scoring in his professional debut. — Moody