Cooper Flagg Outshines LeBron James, Strengthens Rookie of the Year Bid
In Dallas, the Mavericks beat the Lakers 134-128 at American Airlines Center. Cooper Flagg scored 45 points, added eight rebounds and nine assists. LeBron James finished with 30 points, 15 assists and nine rebounds.
Flagg’s scoring surge
Two days before, Flagg erupted for 51 points against the Orlando Magic. He totaled 96 points over the Easter weekend.
Flagg has hit 40 or more points four times this season. No other rookie has reached 40 even once.
Late-game finishing
With 3:26 left, Flagg nailed a turnaround jumper to push the lead to 10. He then made four free throws down the stretch.
Those plays helped Dallas snap a 14-game home losing streak. Flagg also flirted with his first triple-double in the same game.
Rookie of the Year implications
Flagg is averaging 20.8 points per game and a 55.0 true-shooting percentage. He also posts more rebounds, assists, steals and blocks than his closest rookie rival.
His chief competitor is Kon Knueppel of the Charlotte Hornets. Knueppel averages 18.8 points and leads the league in three-pointers made. His true-shooting percentage sits at 64.4.
P.J. Washington told Filmogaz.com that Flagg should be the Rookie of the Year. Washington noted the difficulty of being the primary creator at 19 years old.
Veteran respect and comparisons
After the game, LeBron James embraced Flagg. James compared Flagg’s early path to his own rookie experience.
Both entered the league as No. 1 draft picks at 18. Both handled heavy point-guard minutes early in their careers.
Coaching and long-term view
Jason Kidd praised Flagg’s ability to perform against top defenders. Kidd said the rookie makes difficult looks appear simple.
Kidd also mentioned roster improvements for next season. He listed Kyrie Irving and Dereck Lively II returning, plus a lottery pick and cap flexibility.
The Mavericks sit at 25-53 with four games remaining. Flagg said the many losses will be one lasting memory of his rookie year.
Cooper Flagg outshined LeBron James in Dallas, further strengthening his Rookie of the Year case. The recent scoring peaks make that argument hard to ignore.
