Dallas Mavericks rookie Cooper Flagg has been touted for his potential and versatility. These traits were put on display in Dallas’ recent preseason game against the Charlotte Hornets. Although the Mavericks came away from the game with a 120-116 loss, there were several positive takeaways.
The rookie shone bright next to Dallas’ star Anthony Davis against Charlotte. Given Flagg’s importance as Davis’ running mate in the current scenario, the forward discussed how he could adapt to playing alongside the star big man.
“I think it’s been huge. I think team-wise, just getting a feel, it’s a different game. Different spacing, different levels,” Flagg said while discussing his takeaways from the game.  “I have to find ways to help AD more, play off him a little better, help him impact the game when he’s posting up, getting his isos and whatnot, so I have to find a way to help him a little bit more. But it’s been huge just trying to fit together. That’s what preseason is for. Just for us to come out and get those real game minutes together and kind of gel.”
One of the most crucial talking points from the game was the Mavericks’ decision to give Cooper Flagg the keys to the offense. Dallas certainly seemed impressive with Flagg dictating the tempo. The 19-year-old showcased tremendous poise and composure. While demonstrating his natural feel for the game, his chemistry with Anthony Davis was also noteworthy.
Davis and Flagg were a bright spot on the stat sheet for Dallas on Saturday night. With both players earning more minutes in the rotation, their contributions became significant.
The Mavs’ big man remained solid, as he posted 12 points and four rebounds on 6-for-12 shooting from the field. But Cooper Flagg was truly brilliant, as he notched 11 points, four rebounds, three assists, and three steals on 4-for-8 shooting overall. With his defensive potential on full display, the rookie continues to impress.
With both Flagg and Davis ramping up their workload, the Mavs could look to their rookie to gradually integrate himself into the rotation.
Cooper Flagg’s Sustained Growth Is A Priority
Cooper Flagg, while talented, is also an extremely adaptable athlete. In just a short period of time, the young forward has found a way to carve out a place for himself in the rotation, even taking over the role of the floor general in the absence of Kyrie Irving.
With Irving’s return timeline being uncertain, the Mavericks will need to prioritize Flagg’s sustained growth to ensure their chances of remaining competitive over the course of the season. As the 18-year-old becomes more familiar with playing alongside Anthony Davis, Dallas could be seeing the birth of another star.
With that being said, the Mavs will be very careful in monitoring Cooper Flagg’s workload. Considering how common it is for young players to sustain injuries, owing to the pace of the game at the professional level, ensuring that he remains healthy and consistently builds rhythm and chemistry with the team will be vital.
