Cooper Flagg has had many stories about how he–the number one pick in the draft on the Mavericks–will defeat the number two pick in the draft, Dylan Harper and the Spurs.
Flagg has proven that he deserved the number one spot in the draft. Before his debut, Flagg was the best in his draft class by far, based on stats and fan approval.
Flagg had 10 points and 10 rebounds, recording a double-double in his rookie debut. For most people, that was less than what they were expecting, but Flagg brought enough of his efforts to the team, even though they came up short.
Flagg, who was expecting a great debut, was predicted over 15.5 points in his debut. Unfortunately, he did not meet that expectation.
“Flagg manages double-double but says Mavs’ debut ‘not great’,” says ESPN reporter, Tim MacMahon.
Mavericks star Flagg recorded 22 points, 4 rebounds and 4 assists in their 3rd game. Flagg’s highest scoring game this year was completed, and he played a great defensive game.
The Mavs, who haven’t had the greatest expected season, complete their first victory over the Raptors with the score being 139-129.
“I was talking to a Mavs assistant, and they basically said, ‘Hey, if Cooper ends up averaging like 14, seven and six, and making plays defensively like he does, then that’s gonna be a really, really good rookie season for a kid who doesn’t turn 19 until [December 21],'” MacMahon said.
“The fact that he’s already a solid starter in the NBA at this age is remarkable,” says Mavs coach Jason Kidd.
Flagg, being the youngest in the NBA, has been making a good remark for his age. The Mavericks have been real patient with Flagg given his age. Even though his performance hasn’t lived up to the No.1 draft pick just yet, he is progressively picking it up.
Flagg’s first 20-point performance put him in some elite company, as MacMahon reported that at 18 years and 309 days old. He’s now the fifth-youngest player in NBA history to score 20 points in a game.
“The fans have showed up for the first three games, and I thought tonight was really the first time we gave ’em something to be excited for and be on their feet for,” says Flagg.
