Welcome to the big leagues, Cooper Flagg. As his rookie season with the Dallas Mavericks winds down, the young prodigy is soaking up the greatness around him. One towering figure, in particular, has left him in awe: Nikola Jokic.
While the Mavericks won't be making a postseason appearance, these final regular-season games are crucial for Flagg's development. His recent matchup against the Nuggets was a learning experience, offering a firsthand look at the mastery of Jokic.
After the Mavericks' 142-135 loss, Flagg reflected on the Serbian superstar's influence. When asked if he sees himself following in Jokic's footsteps, the 19-year-old acknowledged the long journey ahead.
"I think so," he admitted, recognizing Jokic's game-reading ability as something to aspire to. "It's incredible, the way he impacts the game."
Jokic's legacy is already cemented as one of the all-time greats. A three-time MVP and leader of the Nuggets' 2023 NBA championship run, his stats this season are nothing short of remarkable: 27.8 points, 12.8 rebounds, and 10.8 assists per game. Against the Mavericks, his 23-21-19 performance was a masterclass that left Flagg astounded.
"Sometimes it seems like he’s not even trying out there," Flagg marveled. "He ends up with 20-20-20.
He’s incredible. It’s crazy to be a part of it out there."
Flagg's rookie season has been a baptism by fire, facing legends like Stephen Curry, LeBron James, Kevin Durant, and Giannis Antetokounmpo. Yet, the term "effortless" seems tailor-made for Jokic.
Despite the Mavericks' struggles, Flagg has shone brightly, averaging 20.4 points per game and often carrying the Dallas offense. He's a frontrunner for Rookie of the Year and is already being tipped as a future MVP contender. The journey may be just beginning, but Cooper Flagg is certainly making his mark.