Cooper Flagg’s Journey to the NBA
Cooper Flagg is about to embark on a journey only those who came before him can understand. The former Duke freshman is on the cusp of realizing a long-awaited dream: playing in the NBA. He’s coming off his lone pre-draft visit with the Mavericks, who have the No. 1 pick in Wednesday’s draft.
Unlike most teams that wind up with the No. 1 pick, the Mavericks are built to contend, as long as the roster is healthy. Flagg can rely on two former No. 1s in Kyrie Irving and Anthony Davis and plenty of veterans, a unique position for a rookie star.
The Mavericks’ Roster and Flagg’s Potential Role
The Mavericks are a team that is built to compete, with a roster that includes two former No. 1 picks in Kyrie Irving and Anthony Davis. This provides a unique opportunity for Flagg, who will have the chance to learn from and play alongside experienced players. However, the team will be without a primary playmaker for a significant chunk of the season while Irving recovers from ACL surgery.
Could Flagg, who’s played forward for most of his young career, be an option at point guard for Mavericks coach Jason Kidd? One of his former trainers and Kidd’s former teammates thinks so.
Brian Scalabrine’s Insights on Flagg’s Potential
“When they pulled the [No. 1] envelope out and it said the Dallas Mavericks, my mind said, ‘Jason Kidd is going to play him at the point,’” former NBA player Brian Scalabrine said. Scalabrine, who played four seasons with Kidd in New Jersey, made the assumption based on the former Milwaukee coach’s history with Giannis Antetokounmpo.
Kidd was one of the first NBA coaches to use the two-time MVP forward at point guard, which further unlocked his full potential. “It would not surprise me, especially with Kyrie Irving out, if he dabbles with Cooper at the point,” Scalabrine said. “And I’m not saying point forward, like Draymond Green. I’m saying point guard, like get us into our offense and set us up.
“The long-term development of that is why I think it’s a great fit. … If I’m giving that position to anybody, I’m giving it to the guy who can figure things out.”
Flagg’s Generational Talent
Others who’ve evaluated Flagg say he’s a generational talent, a 6-8 forward who isn’t limited to playing one position. “He’ll dominate 10 different ways in one game and 10 different ways in 10 different games,” Scalabrine said.
Flagg’s ability to dominate the game in multiple ways makes him an exciting prospect for the Mavericks. With his unique combination of size, skill, and athleticism, he has the potential to make an immediate impact in the NBA.
Staying Up-to-Date on the Mavericks
For the latest news and updates on the Mavericks, follow Mike Curtis on Twitter. You can also find more Mavericks coverage from The Dallas Morning News here.
Mavericks Coverage
Mavericks
Conclusion
Cooper Flagg’s journey to the NBA is an exciting one, and his potential fit with the Mavericks is a compelling storyline. With his generational talent and the team’s need for a playmaker, it will be interesting to see how Flagg’s career unfolds. As the NBA draft approaches, fans will be eagerly watching to see where Flagg will land and how he will contribute to his new team.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Who is Cooper Flagg?
A: Cooper Flagg is a former Duke freshman who is entering the NBA draft. He is a 6-8 forward with generational talent and the potential to dominate the game in multiple ways.
Q: Which team has the No. 1 pick in the NBA draft?
A: The Dallas Mavericks have the No. 1 pick in the NBA draft.
Q: Who is Brian Scalabrine?
A: Brian Scalabrine is a former NBA player who played four seasons with Jason Kidd in New Jersey. He is also a former trainer of Cooper Flagg and has insights into Flagg’s potential and fit with the Mavericks.
Q: What is the Mavericks’ roster like?
A: The Mavericks have a roster that includes two former No. 1 picks in Kyrie Irving and Anthony Davis, as well as plenty of veterans. However, the team will be without a primary playmaker for a significant chunk of the season while Irving recovers from ACL surgery.
