The Dallas Mavericks are rethinking Cooper Flagg’s position as they prepare for the new NBA season. Flagg, who was the top overall pick from Duke and primarily played as a forward in college, is now being considered for a point guard role to address Kyrie Irving’s current absence. This adjustment highlights a significant change in how the team plans to use his skills on the court.
Flagg’s Performance and Adjustment During the Summer League
In the Las Vegas Summer League, Cooper Flagg displayed promising abilities as a point guard, catching the attention of analysts and Mavericks staff alike. CBS Sports writer Cameron Salerno reported that head coach Jason Kidd’s choice to have Flagg take on point guard duties was intentional, designed to challenge the young player and see if he could adapt to this new, demanding role.
Over two games, Flagg handled the ball on 15 pick-and-roll possessions, scoring 11 points and showing offensive creativity. He also contributed playmaking with one assist against the San Antonio Spurs and four assists in a victory over the Los Angeles Lakers, underscoring his potential as a facilitator. Notably, Flagg maintained control by limiting his turnovers to just three during these outings.
Building on Flagg’s Playmaking Heritage from Duke
Flagg’s collegiate career revealed his capabilities as an underrated playmaker, which the Mavericks hope to cultivate further by developing his skills at point guard. Using the Summer League as a testing ground allows him to adjust without high pressure, gaining experience in decision-making and court vision that the position requires. This shift aligns with Dallas’s strategic needs given Irving’s ongoing unavailability.
Despite Flagg’s natural position being forward, with teammates like Anthony Davis at power forward and Dereck Lively II at center already established, his evolution into a point guard could represent the most impactful way for him to contribute to the team.
Implications for the Mavericks and Next Steps
As the Mavericks finalize their preparations for the upcoming season, Flagg’s development as a point guard is becoming a key focal point. The team’s willingness to explore this new role for him adds an intriguing dimension to their roster strategy. Flagg’s transition from Duke forward to potential Mavericks point guard is more than a role adjustment; it indicates the team’s broader ambitions to integrate his diverse talents into their future success.
“Mavericks head coach Jason Kidd’s decision to assign Flagg some point guard responsibilities was not just experimental. Kidd aimed to challenge Flagg, pushing him out of his comfort zone to evaluate how he adapts to this new role.” —Cameron Salerno, CBS Sports Writer
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