Multiple NBA scouts have drawn comparisons between Cooper Flagg and former All-Star Andrei Kirilenko, according to HoopsHype. These scouts highlight Flagg’s defensive prowess, versatility, and athleticism, reminiscent of Kirilenko’s impactful NBA career. One scout mentioned:
Scout 1: “Flagg is like Kirilenko; he’s very impactful defensively, can guard multiple positions, and is a great weak-side shot blocker.”
Scout 2: “Flagg doesn’t create much off the dribble offensively but creates more offense with his defense than anyone in the country.”
NBA Executive: “I think he’ll eventually be a good second or third option on a really good NBA team. His best attribute right now is his defense. Overall, he can play in so many different ways.”
Flagg, projected as the No. 1 pick in the 2025 NBA Draft, has been a standout player, particularly for Team USA’s Select Team in Las Vegas. According to a report by HoopsHype, an NBA executive and two scouts likened Flagg to Kirilenko. This mirrors Kirilenko’s strengths, who was known for his defensive capabilities, including ranking in the top 10 in blocks per game for five seasons.
Flagg’s quick first step and aggressive finishing around the basket are other attributes that draw comparisons to Kirilenko. However, some scouts note that Flagg’s offensive game, particularly his half-court offense and shooting, needs development. This assessment indicates that while Flagg’s defense is exceptional, his offensive skills, especially creating shots in the half-court, require improvement.
Another scout emphasized Flagg’s potential as a versatile forward, stating, “He’s more of a four than a three due to his supreme athletic nature. The consistency of his outside shot improving will depend on how much emphasis is put in allowing him to shoot it in real games and not just practice.” This suggests that Flagg’s role in the NBA might evolve based on his ability to develop a reliable outside shot.
The comparisons to Kirilenko also highlight Flagg’s potential to be a significant contributor on a good NBA team. This sentiment underscores the high expectations for Flagg as he transitions to the professional level.
Cooper Flagg’s combination of defensive prowess, athleticism, and potential offensive development has led to comparisons with Andrei Kirilenko. As Flagg prepares for his freshman season at Duke and eventual NBA career, the expectations for his impact on both ends of the court are sky-high.
Andrei Kirilenko’s NBA Career
Andrei Kirilenko, known for his versatile play and defensive prowess, had a notable NBA career that spanned over a decade. Born in Russia, Kirilenko was drafted 24th overall by the Utah Jazz in the 1999 NBA Draft but didn’t join the league until the 2001-2002 season.
Kirilenko spent the majority of his NBA career with the Utah Jazz, where he played from 2001 to 2011. During his time with the Jazz, he became known for his exceptional defensive skills, earning the nickname “AK-47,” a play on his initials and jersey number, as well as a reference to the famous Russian rifle.
Kirilenko’s best season came in 2003-2004 when he was selected as an NBA All-Star. During that season, he averaged 16.5 points, 8.1 rebounds, 3.1 assists, 2.8 blocks, and 1.9 steals per game. His ability to contribute across multiple statistical categories made him one of the most versatile players in the league. That season also saw him earn a spot on the NBA All-Defensive Second Team, highlighting his impact on the defensive end of the court.
After his tenure with the Jazz, Kirilenko played for the Minnesota Timberwolves during the 2012-2013 season. He then had a brief stint with the Brooklyn Nets from 2013 to 2014 before returning to Russia to continue his basketball career.
Kirilenko’s career averages reflect his all-around game: he posted 11.8 points, 5.5 rebounds, 2.7 assists, 1.8 blocks, and 1.4 steals per game over his NBA career. His unique combination of size, athleticism, and basketball IQ allowed him to guard multiple positions and excel as a shot-blocker and defensive anchor.
Beyond his individual stats, Kirilenko was known for his high basketball IQ and his ability to make his teammates better, often contributing in ways that didn’t always show up on the stat sheet. His impact on the game was widely recognized, and he remains one of the most respected international players in NBA history.
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