Introduction to Cooper Flagg and the Dallas Mavericks
Ever since the Mavericks won the NBA draft lottery, Cooper Flagg’s fit on the Dallas roster has been a hot topic. The Mavericks will be piecing together their point guard rotation while they await the return of Kyrie Irving, who is still recovering from ACL surgery. If preseason lineups are any indication, Flagg is apparently an option to help fill out that rotation.
Cooper Flagg’s Role in the Team
With D’Angelo Russell out, Flagg started at point guard alongside P.J. Washington, Klay Thompson, Anthony Davis and Dereck Lively II on Monday night against the Jazz. It’s an ultra-big lineup that features the 6-foot-9 Flagg at point. Thompson is 6-foot-5, Washington is 6-foot-7, Davis is 6-foot-10 and Lively is listed at 7-foot-1, though he said he grew to 7-2 or 7-3 at media day.
In his first two preseason games, Flagg has totaled 21 points, seven assists and nine rebounds in 38 minutes. However, he had his first rough night of the season. Flagg made just 3 of 13 shots in Dallas’ 114-101 win, finishing with 11 points, seven rebounds, an assist, two steals and two blocks in 21 minutes.
Speculations and Expectations
It was speculated that the No. 1 pick in the draft could possibly play some point guard for Dallas with Irving out. In his lone season at Duke, the forward displayed some intriguing playmaking ability, averaging 4.2 assists and 2.1 turnovers per game.
“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 over the summer. “It would not surprise me, especially with Kyrie Irving out, if he dabbles with Cooper at the point.
“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.”
Cooper Flagg’s Performance
The 18-year-old got his first opportunity to showcase his playmaking in the point guard role in his third preseason game vs. Utah. This game was a significant test for Flagg, as he had to demonstrate his ability to lead the team and make crucial decisions on the court.
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Conclusion
In conclusion, Cooper Flagg’s fit on the Dallas Mavericks roster is an exciting development for the team. With his playmaking ability and versatility on the court, Flagg has the potential to make a significant impact on the team’s performance. As the preseason continues, it will be interesting to see how Flagg adapts to his new role and how the team utilizes his skills.
Find more Mavericks coverage from The Dallas Morning News here.
FAQs
Q: Who is Cooper Flagg?
A: Cooper Flagg is the No. 1 pick in the NBA draft and a forward who played for Duke University.
Q: What is Cooper Flagg’s role in the Dallas Mavericks?
A: Cooper Flagg is being considered for the point guard position in the Dallas Mavericks, especially with Kyrie Irving out due to injury.
Q: How has Cooper Flagg performed in the preseason games?
A: Cooper Flagg has totaled 21 points, seven assists and nine rebounds in 38 minutes in his first two preseason games. However, he had a rough night in his third game, making just 3 of 13 shots.
Q: What are the expectations for Cooper Flagg’s performance in the upcoming season?
A: Expectations are high for Cooper Flagg, with many speculating that he will play a significant role in the team’s performance. His playmaking ability and versatility on the court make him an exciting addition to the team.
