Jason Kidd, the Dallas Mavericks coach, isn't mincing words when it comes to Cooper Flagg's shot at Rookie of the Year. He made it clear that securing the award for Flagg is a significant goal for the team.
Kidd emphasized, “It’s a big award - you’re only a rookie once. Cooper has to do his part, and he is.
He’s having a historic year.”
Flagg certainly backed up his coach’s confidence with a stellar performance against the Portland Trail Blazers. Dropping 24 points, with 20 of those in a scorching first half, he showcased his scoring prowess.
His performance included an impressive 7-of-11 from the field and a perfect 6-of-6 from the charity stripe. This marked his 11th career 20-point half, surpassing the rest of the rookie class combined, according to Elias Sports.
Flagg's recent form has been nothing short of electrifying. Over the last three games, he’s averaged 27.3 points, 5.0 rebounds, and 6.0 assists, while shooting a remarkable 57.4% from the field.
Since the All-Star break, those numbers have been consistently strong, with averages of 20.6 points, 6.7 rebounds, and 6.5 assists over 13 games. For the season, his stats are equally impressive, standing at 20.4 points, 6.6 rebounds, and 4.7 assists over 62 games.
Kidd’s assertion that Flagg’s numbers stack up favorably against past rookies is hard to dispute.
Reflecting on his journey, Flagg admitted that regaining his rhythm post-injury was challenging. “Before I got hurt, I had an incredible rhythm,” he shared.
“When I came back, it was tough getting your foot back in. But I feel like lately I’ve started to get that rhythm back.
My teammates have been incredibly supportive.”
Despite the Mavericks’ struggles - a 24-50 record and losing 24 of their last 28 games - Flagg remains motivated, crediting the organization’s unwavering support. “I’ve felt the support the whole year,” he said. “If I go out there and be myself, I can drown out the pressure.”
Flagg’s friendship with fellow Duke alum Kon Knueppel, now with the Charlotte Hornets, remains strong despite the Rookie of the Year competition. “We don’t talk about Rookie of the Year at all,” Flagg noted. Their bond is rooted in mutual respect and support, transcending the awards race.
In a light-hearted moment, Flagg was asked about any postgame banter with Knueppel. He laughed off the idea, saying, “No, nothing like that.”
Flagg also enjoyed a touch of Duke magic, as the Blue Devils secured a Sweet 16 win earlier in the day. Reflecting on the double victory, he joked, “Two Duke wins, so I mean… the Dallas Blue Devil was one as well.”
Kidd highlighted a moment that encapsulated Flagg’s unique talent - a sprint against Jrue Holiday where Flagg, ball in hand, outran one of the league’s quickest defenders. “Cooper left him. It was pretty impressive,” Kidd remarked, praising Flagg’s speed and finishing ability.
Having played 62 games - more than most rookies manage in a season - Flagg has been a cornerstone for a Mavericks team battling injuries and adversity. Through it all, his mantra remains unchanged: “If I go out there and be myself, everything else will work itself out.”
And through 62 games, that approach has proven more than effective.