The Cooper Flag has been acknowledged by many as one of the crucial gifted and primary picks lately.
Shortly after highschool, Cooper Flag had an enormous D1 supply, however he determined to affix Duke.
Even earlier than he stepped into NBA courthouses, Flagg was a recognized identify amongst NBA gamers resulting from his efficiency on the US Choose Workforce in 2024 Olympic practices.
He carried out brilliantly in school and was chosen by the Dallas Mavericks as the primary general decide within the 2025 NBA Draft.
His sport was nice on each offensive and defensive endings on the ground, so it was anticipated to make a easy transition into the league.
However after Bronnie James’ debut Summer time League sport with the La Lakers, NBA consultants selected what Flag actually must work on.
Flagg scored 10 factors, grabbed six boards and three steals in a sport in opposition to the Lakers.
Kyrie Irving praised him after his efficiency, however the primary decide himself wasn’t happy along with his output.
Flag shot solely 5-21 from the sphere and went with out buying a 3-pointer all night time.
Tim Legler was one among many presents to see Flag working, analysing how the sport thought he hadn’t labored for the previous Duke participant.
Talking about all of the NBA podcasts, the previous participant mentioned:
“So, is it simple to repair? You must cease turning your wrists. To be trustworthy with you, I do not know.
“He is solely 18 years outdated, however they need to see the identical factor I see. He is selecting the primary decide and the folks you understand may be within the Corridor of Fame.
“However meaning he completely must get it as a result of if he would not do this he’ll be a 30-point shooter with a low 20-second 30-second.”
A single sport would not present what Flagg can do as a participant, however Legler’s evaluation is actually one thing the participant can deal with.
The 18-year-old shot 38.5% within the NCAA Event over the ARC, however the NBA’s three-point line is a bit completely different to varsity.
Flagg is bodily guarded and never given many open photographs. In different phrases, he has to profit from his alternatives.
If he continues filming with the mistaken method, Flagg might have an effectivity downside.
However he’s a teammate of Klay Thompson, among the best shooters within the NBA.
Along with being an ideal participant, Thompson can be an ideal coach for Flag.
The rookie struggles with effectivity at instances, however Flag has some nice teammates round him. That is one thing even LeBron James identified.
The four-time champion has among the best taking pictures varieties within the league. That is how Flag can study so much.
If he listens to his teammates and may adapt effectively to his directions, there is no doubt that he shall be among the best gamers within the coming years.
