Since the start of the 2025-26 season, one of the biggest storylines fans have been following is how Cooper Flagg would perform in his much-anticipated rookie campaign. Already being compared to Larry Bird based on his versatility and playing style, there was an expectation for the 18-year-old to quickly transition onto the big stage and show his "A-Game."
Still, in reality, no such thing has happened. While coach Jason Kidd made it clear that he would challenge Flagg by playing him as the point guard, the experiment clearly seems to be taking a toll on him.
This has led Rashad McCants to openly criticize Kidd and the Dallas Mavericks for wasting Flagg's potential by constantly playing him in a role where he finds asserting his authority difficult.
Every rookie entering the league needs time and patience to adjust to the high pace of the NBA and Flagg is no exception. However, instead of easing him into the system at his natural forward position, Kidd handed him the responsibility of running the offense — a task that even seasoned veterans struggle with while playing with new teammates.
Through the first four games, Cooper has totaled just 10 assists, including two outings with none. The pressure seems to have affected his confidence, as he managed just two points in the Mavs' most recent game against the Oklahoma City Thunder .
This has led McCants to question the Mavs and coach Kidd's long-term vision for the Duke sensation. According to him, forcing Flagg to operate as a point guard rather than allowing him to dominate as a forward, perhaps showcase his versatility like Dirk Nowitzki in the post, is a mistake that could derail his development. Additionally, the strategy to force Flagg to be Kidd 2.0 seems only counterproductive.
"The Dallas Mavericks are doing no justice for Cooper Flagg 'cause ya'll trying to cover the Luka Doncic s–t.'" he said . "Putting him at the point guard position, Jason Kidd… the audacity, it's absurd. DLo over there; he's sitting there, like, 'Why are we playing Cooper at the point? He's got no assists.'"
"But I thought you were gonna throw it ahead, pitch it ahead to mfs and let them go, but that didn't happen. When you talk about Cooper being set up for success, he's supposed to be the next Dirk Nowitzki for Dallas Mavericks, not the next Jason Kidd," McCants said. "I don't know what the f–k they're thinking over there… Cooper Flagg is like Keith Van Horn. He's one of those guys that can give you 20 and 10, put him in mid post."
To be honest, even if Flagg eventually finds his rhythm as a point guard, once Kyrie Irving returns later in the season, he will inevitably reclaim primary ball-handling duties, leaving Flagg to readjust to his forward spot again.
That constant role shifting could disrupt his confidence and hinder his ability to build consistency early in his career. That is why an experienced D'Angelo Russell should start as the team's point guard, whereas Flagg should be allowed to handle the frontcourt.
That being said, the spotlight on Flagg isn't going anywhere. As one of the most hyped rookies in recent memory, every move he makes will be dissected under the microscope, and clearly, at this point, he is performing well below expectations for many.
This story was originally reported by Basketball Network on Oct 28, 2025, where it first appeared in the Latest News section. Add Basketball Network as a Preferred Source by clicking here.
