UPDATE: Dallas Mavericks coach Jason Kidd has praised rookie Cooper Flagg‘s performance as starting point guard but remains undecided on his role for the upcoming season. Flagg, just 18 years old, showcased his skills during the Mavericks’ 121-94 victory over the Los Angeles Lakers at T-Mobile Arena.
In the final two preseason games, Flagg shifted from forward to point guard, where he averaged 12.0 points, 4.5 rebounds, and 2.0 assists. Kidd acknowledged Flagg’s adaptability but emphasized the need for further evaluation, stating, “There’s a lot of good, positive stories here, and so we have some time to make a decision.”
Flagg’s transition comes after the Mavericks started offseason acquisition D’Angelo Russell at point guard in earlier matchups. The team’s performance against the Lakers, particularly their sluggish start, raised questions about lineup efficiency. The Mavericks fell behind 22-10 before Flagg subbed out midway through the first quarter.
“The offense was too stagnant early,” Kidd noted, highlighting spacing concerns with the current lineup. Flagg’s teammates, including Klay Thompson and P.J. Washington, reportedly enjoy his leadership on the court, yet Flagg acknowledged his own need for improvement: “I made some mental lapses today… just got to be aware of what’s on the clock at all times.”
Despite a rocky start, Flagg’s competitive spirit is evident. He faced challenges defensively against Lakers’ shooter Gabe Vincent, who scored 18 points in just over four minutes. “No matter if you’re 6-4, 6-2 or 6-8, when you’re in a pick-and-roll against experienced players, it’s tough,” Kidd explained. However, he remains optimistic about Flagg’s development, stating, “With his competitiveness, he’s going to figure it out sooner than later.”
As the Mavericks prepare for the season, all eyes will be on Kidd’s final decision regarding Flagg’s starting position. Fans and analysts alike are eager to see if the rookie will solidify his role as the Mavericks’ point guard in the upcoming season. The team will be looking to address early-game struggles and enhance their offensive strategy. Stay tuned for more updates as we track Flagg’s journey and the Mavericks’ preparations for the regular season.
