Cooper Flagg is making waves in the NBA, and the Dallas Mavericks couldn't be happier with their 19-year-old rookie sensation. With an impressive stat line of 20.4 points, 6.6 rebounds, 4.1 assists, and 1.2 steals per game, all while shooting over 48% from the field, Flagg is proving to be one of the most remarkable rookies the league has seen.
His rapid development since his freshman year at Duke has caught the attention of many, including ESPN's Stephen A. Smith. On a recent episode of First Take, Smith praised Flagg as the future face of the Mavericks, highlighting the excitement surrounding his potential as the cornerstone of the franchise.
In a bold move, Dallas traded Anthony Davis at the trade deadline, signaling their commitment to building around Flagg and Kyrie Irving. With Irving now sidelined for the rest of the season, Flagg has the opportunity to shine even brighter and prove his worth.
Building a team around a rookie is rare in today's NBA, but Flagg's talent makes it a no-brainer for the Mavericks. His elite defense, relentless work ethic, veteran-like finishing ability, and exceptional teamwork are qualities that set him apart, especially at such a young age.
The trade involving Davis wasn't just about acquiring draft picks; it was a strategic decision to gain financial flexibility for future moves centered around Flagg. Dallas is clearly focused on constructing a contender with him at the helm, recognizing his immense value.
Flagg's ability to elevate his game under pressure suggests that the Rookie of the Year award could very well be in his future. If he continues on this trajectory, the Mavericks and their fans have every reason to be excited about what lies ahead.