Mavericks Showcase Versatile Rookie Flagg
The Dallas Mavericks wrapped up their 2025 preseason slate with a 121-94 victory over the Los Angeles Lakers on Wednesday night in Las Vegas. The game provided an opportunity for the Mavericks to experiment with their lineup, particularly the role of rookie Cooper Flagg.
Flagg, the team's first-round draft pick, has been thrust into a starting point guard role during the preseason as the Mavericks look to maximize his versatility. Coach Jason Kidd was noncommittal about keeping Flagg in that position to start the regular season, but the 18-year-old has impressed with his feel for the game and playmaking ability.
"There's a lot of good, positive stories here, and so we have some time to make some decisions," Kidd said of Flagg's future role.
Oversized Lineup Remains a Work in Progress
The Mavericks once again deployed a supersized starting lineup featuring the 6'9" Flagg alongside fellow frontcourt players like Anthony Davis and Klay Thompson. While this approach has generated intrigue, it has also presented some challenges in terms of offensive flow and rhythm.
"We haven't seen Brandon Williams this preseason until the 4th quarter of this game due to a hamstring injury, so he hasn't been able to put a dog in this fight, but Nembhard has just been impressive with his playmaking," noted one analyst. "And, at this point, we know Jaden Hardy isn't really playable."
TL;DR
- Rookie Cooper Flagg has impressed in a starting point guard role during the preseason, though the Mavericks remain noncommittal on his long-term position.
- The Mavericks continued experimenting with an oversized starting lineup, which has shown both promise and areas for improvement.
- The team's depth and rotation remain a work in progress as they finalize their roster ahead of the regular season.