Kevin Durant Praises Rookie Cooper Flagg
Kevin Durant described Dallas Mavericks rookie Cooper Flagg as “a nightmare” on the court and believes it is only a matter of time before Flagg fully adjusts and excels in the NBA. Durant’s opinion carries weight as a 15-time All-Star and two-time NBA champion, especially regarding the league’s emerging talent.
Flagg's Early Impact
Despite the Mavericks' recent 110–102 loss to the Houston Rockets, Flagg showed promising performance. Over seven games this season, he has averaged 13.6 points, 6.3 rebounds, and 2.9 assists, demonstrating his versatile two-way skills that made him the top pick in the 2025 NBA Draft.
Growth in the Rookie Season
In the game against the Rockets, Flagg contributed 12 points, five rebounds, and two assists, marking another milestone in his development.
Expectations and Legacy
Cooper Flagg, a Maine native and former Duke standout, is seen as the face of the Mavericks’ new era following Luka Dončić's departure. He carries the hopes of a franchise eager to redefine its identity.
“I think that he’s going to be a hell of a player... I think that he’s going to be such a nightmare… that… he’ll be considered one of the best of all time.” — Kevin Durant
Durant’s confidence in Flagg highlights the rookie’s potential to become one of the NBA's greatest players over time.
Author's Summary
Kevin Durant predicts Cooper Flagg will evolve into one of the NBA's all-time greats, praising the rookie’s early versatility and impact with the Dallas Mavericks.