Imagine an 18-year-old rookie dominating the NBA, making history with every step. That’s exactly what Cooper Flagg is doing, and it’s nothing short of remarkable. But here’s where it gets controversial: is he the next big thing, or just a flash in the pan? Let’s dive into his recent performance and you decide.
Flagg, the Dallas Mavericks’ No. 1 overall pick in the 2025 NBA Draft, has gone from a promising debut to an absolute standout in just a few games. His transformation has been nothing short of dramatic, leaving fans and analysts alike in awe. In a recent matchup against the Portland Trail Blazers, Flagg dropped 21 points, grabbed eight rebounds, dished out five assists, and added a steal and two blocks in a thrilling 138-133 victory. And this is the part most people miss: in just 37 minutes, he became the youngest player in NBA history to achieve 20 points, five rebounds, and five assists without a single turnover. Talk about making history!
On the court, Flagg was a force to be reckoned with. He seamlessly transitioned from pushing the pace in fast breaks to settling the team in half-court sets, all while finishing at the rim with impressive finesse. His poise on the offensive end was particularly striking, showcasing a maturity well beyond his years. Over his last four games, the 6-foot-9 forward has averaged 19.8 points, 7.0 rebounds, 3.8 assists, 1.8 steals, and 1.3 blocks per game. His two-way play has been elite, with a 54.2% field goal percentage and high-level defense. While his three-point shot still needs work, his overall improvement across 14 games is undeniable.
Here’s a bold take: Could Flagg be the silver lining in a season that started with a 4-10 record for the Mavericks? With the team still reeling from the Luka Doncic era and the recent firing of Nico Harrison, Flagg’s emergence feels like a breath of fresh air. His potential is undeniable, even if his three-point shooting remains a work in progress. Remember, Flagg technically should still be in college, having reclassified to enter the NBA early. For him to perform at this level at such a young age is a testament to his talent and a promising sign for Dallas.
Currently, Flagg sits second in the NBA rookie ladder, just behind his former Duke teammate Kon Knueppel of the Charlotte Hornets. While the Mavericks’ season hasn’t gone as planned, Flagg’s development is a bright spot. With stars like Anthony Davis and Kyrie Irving sidelined, the team has no choice but to lean on their rookie phenom. They’ve experimented with Flagg at various positions, from point guard to power forward, showcasing his versatility. If a full rebuild is on the horizon, expect Flagg to have even more opportunities to shine without the pressure of immediate wins.
But here’s the question: Is Cooper Flagg the future of the NBA, or is it too early to crown him? Let us know your thoughts in the comments. One thing’s for sure—this rookie is worth watching, and his journey is just beginning. Give it time, and we might just be witnessing the rise of a legend.