Mavericks‘ Cooper Flagg Delivers Career performance in Win over Pelicans
NEW ORLEANS – Mavericks rookie Cooper Flagg recorded a career-high 25 points, 7 rebounds, and 5 assists in a 118-115 victory over the New Orleans Pelicans Friday night, besting former high school teammate Derik queen in a highly anticipated matchup. The win marked the Mavericks’ second consecutive against the Pelicans after New Orleans won the first meeting two weeks prior.
flagg’s performance comes as he continues to rapidly develop into a key contributor for Dallas.The 18-year-old’s ability to impact the game in multiple facets – scoring, rebounding, and playmaking – is quickly establishing him as one of the league’s most promising young talents. This victory is notable for the Mavericks as they navigate a competitive Western Conference,and Flagg’s growth is central to their playoff aspirations.
Trailing by 14 points at halftime, Mavericks coach Jason Kidd challenged Flagg to focus on attacking the paint rather than settling for his developing jump shot. Flagg responded emphatically, scoring 21 points on 8-of-9 shooting in the second half, with all but one basket coming from inside.
“I was settling too much, settling for jump shots,” Flagg said. “Not that they’re bad shots, but just settling a little too much.You got to put more pressure on the defense.”
flagg’s 20 points in the paint made him the second-youngest player in NBA history to reach that mark, according to ESPN Research. LeBron James previously achieved 20 points in the paint at 18 years, 334 days old – just one day older than Flagg was on Friday night. Flagg also joined James as the only 18-year-olds to record at least 25 points, 5 rebounds, and 5 assists in a single game.
“He’s blossoming into who we all know he is,” said Mavericks forward P.J. Washington (24 points, 9 rebounds). “Just being himself, taking on the big moments and converting. Getting to the paint, getting to his spots and making the right decision each and every time.”
queen finished with 12 points and 8 rebounds for the Pelicans.The Mavericks will return home to face the [Next Opponent] on [Date].
