The Dallas Mavericks faced a tough overtime loss to the Los Angeles Clippers, but rookie Cooper Flagg is finding a silver lining in the mentorship of Kyrie Irving. Despite not playing this season due to a left ACL injury, Irving has been a guiding force for Flagg since the Mavericks snagged him as the top pick in the 2025 NBA Draft.
“Kyrie has been a huge mental support,” Flagg shared. “He’s been through what I’m experiencing now, and I’m soaking up all the wisdom he offers.”
The Mavericks, now sitting at 23-48, are struggling in 13th place in the Western Conference, missing out on both the playoffs and the play-in tournament. For Flagg, a native of Maine, this season marks a new level of adversity, but he’s leaning on the experience of Irving and other seasoned teammates.
“I’ve really relied on my teammates,” Flagg said. “The veterans in the locker room have been crucial in helping me stay grounded through this challenging season.”
Flagg’s individual performance has been a bright spot. He’s averaging an impressive 20.1 points, 6.7 rebounds, and 4.5 assists per game, with shooting splits of 46.9% from the field, 28.4% from three-point range, and 80.6% from the free-throw line.
The Mavericks made a significant move by trading Anthony Davis to the Washington Wizards at the trade deadline but held onto Irving. The decision not to trade the 2016 NBA champion highlights the franchise’s commitment to Flagg’s development alongside an elite point guard, according to sources.
Fans are eagerly anticipating the debut of the Irving-Flagg duo next season under Coach Jason Kidd’s leadership. The potential for these former Duke stars to shine together is generating buzz.
“The fans continue to support us,” Flagg acknowledged. “We haven’t delivered the wins they deserve, but their loyalty means everything. We’re focused on giving them more reasons to cheer.”