Mavericks Coach Jason Kidd Evaluates Rookie Flagg’s Role at PG

UPDATE: In a pivotal moment for the Dallas Mavericks, head coach Jason Kidd has praised rookie Cooper Flagg for his performance as the starting point guard in the team’s final preseason games. However, Kidd remains noncommittal about whether the 18-year-old will retain that role as the season approaches.

This evaluation comes just after the Mavericks secured a commanding 121-94 victory over the Los Angeles Lakers on Wednesday at T-Mobile Arena. The game featured a slow start for Dallas, which faced a Lakers team resting key players.

Flagg, who previously played as a forward at Duke, transitioned to point guard during the preseason, averaging 12.0 points, 4.5 rebounds, and 2.0 assists in this new position. Kidd highlighted Flagg’s ability to manage the team, stating, “He’s done an incredible job of handling the situation of running the team. And the other thing that I think is going unnoticed is that his teammates enjoy him running the team.”

Despite Flagg’s promising performance, Kidd pointed out issues with the Mavericks’ offensive flow at the start of the game, where they fell behind 22-10 before Flagg was substituted midway through the first quarter. The team’s shooting struggles were evident, with starters hitting just 3-of-15 from beyond the arc against the Lakers.

Flagg acknowledged his need to improve, particularly in “time and score situations,” emphasizing, “Just got to stay more attached [defensively]. Can’t let a hot player keep getting looks.” Notably, he faced challenges while defending Gabe Vincent, who scored 18 points in just the first four minutes.

Kidd also addressed the learning curve for Flagg, saying, “No matter if you’re 6-4, 6-2 or 6-8, when you’re in a pick-and-roll in this league against guys who know how to run the pick-and-roll, it’s hard.” He expressed confidence in Flagg’s competitiveness and potential for growth, indicating that the rookie will benefit from these experiences as the regular season approaches.

As the Mavericks prepare for the upcoming season, all eyes will be on Flagg to see if he secures the starting point guard position. Fans and analysts alike are eager for the next update on this emerging young talent, with the regular season set to tip off shortly.