The Dallas Mavericks have been hit with a series of problems so far this season, but they are still hopeful about their future. A major reason for this optimism is Cooper Flagg, of course.
The young rookie is finding his footing and becoming something special. On Sunday night, he posted 21 points, eight rebounds, five assists, two blocks, a steal, and zero turnovers during his team’s 138-133 win over the Portland Trail Blazers.
On X, Landon Thomas noted that means that Flagg has joined only Tracy McGrady and LeBron James as the only 18-year-olds to record a 20-5-5 game in league history. His team may be having issues, but Flagg is only getting better during his rookie campaign.
Cooper Flagg joined Tracy McGrady and LeBron James as the only 18-year-olds to record a 20-5-5 game in NBA history.
Flagg had 21 points (9-16 FG), 8 rebounds, 5 assists, 2 blocks, 1 steal and 0 turnovers tonight against the Trail Blazers.
— Landon Thomas (@sixfivelando) November 17, 2025
So far this year, Flagg is putting up 15.6 points, 6.7 rebounds, and 3.2 assists on 44.7 percent from the field. During his first few games of the year, some people were worried about Flagg because he wasn’t playing like the dominant force that fans had expected, but he just needed time to get his feet under him.
Now, Flagg is looking much more consistent and comfortable on the floor. He is making history like this, which is clearly a great thing and a wonderful sign of how he is progressing.
The problem is that his Mavericks are in a tough spot because Kyrie Irving is still out, Anthony Davis is hurt, Klay Thompson isn’t playing well, and the team is the 13th seed in the West.
With the firing of GM Nico Harrison, many people are saying the Mavericks should trade away just about everyone in order to build around Flagg. They confidently believe he will be the future of this franchise, and they want the front office to respect that.
NEXT: Analyst Names Potential Trade Suitor For Anthony Davis
