It was a story of two video games for VJ Edgecomb and Cooper Flagg that began their respective NBA careers.
VJ Edgecomb and Cooper Flagg each made their official NBA debuts tonight, and it is protected to say they made their presence identified.
Cooper Flagg was chosen by the Dallas Mavericks with the undisputed first total choose within the 2025 NBA Draft, whereas VJ Edgecomb was chosen third total by the Philadelphia 76ers because of Ace Bailey’s poor draft technique.
However the 76ers will probably be counting their fortunate stars for selecting Edgecombe. As a result of he was actually nice for them within the opening sport.
Cooper Flagg had an excellent efficiency towards the Spurs, however his efficiency was a reminder that he isn’t the kind of participant to win Rookie of the Yr.
In his rookie debut, VJ Edgecombe had an incredible efficiency, recording 34 factors, 7 rebounds, and three assists whereas making 5 3-point pictures.
His efficiency will go down in historical past because the third-highest debut rating for a rookie, behind solely Wilt Chamberlain and Frank Selvey.
Moreover, he turned the primary rookie to attain within the first quarter of a debut sport since LeBron James in 2003.
Down South, Cooper Flagg made his debut with the Dallas Mavericks. Though he turned his efficiency round within the second half, it was a troublesome night time.
Flagg was scoreless within the first half, however completed the sport with 10 factors, 10 rebounds and one steal. Nicely, Flagg was capable of do his job towards Victor Wenbanyama, however that wasn’t all.
Jason Kidd likes Cooper Flagg’s ball-handling expertise, so the Mavericks are enjoying him as a degree guard. And whereas Flagg could also be extraordinarily proficient, he’s on no account a pure level guard.
If Flagg finally ends up enjoying the purpose till Kyrie Irving returns, his possibilities of successful the Rookie of the Yr title are in jeopardy.
VJ Edgecombe had an incredible efficiency on the highway on opening night time, reminding everybody that competing for Rookie of the Yr isn’t a foregone conclusion.
Carmelo Anthony doubts Edgecomb can win Rookie of the Yr, but it surely’s laborious to doubt Edgecombe primarily based on his efficiency.
After all, that is simply Sport 1 and there is much more basketball to be performed. However the NBA’s opening week ought to function a reminder to followers to not rely out different rookies.
There are some thrilling rookies within the league this season, so regulate the Rookie of the Yr race, because it’s positive to be an thrilling race.
