Kevin Durant Predicts Cooper Flagg Will Become ‘One of the Best All-Time’
Houston Rockets star Kevin Durant has witnessed enough of rookie sensation Cooper Flagg to confidently predict that the young Mavericks player is destined for greatness.
Mavericks Struggle Early in the Season
Dallas started the season poorly, falling to a 2-5 record after a 110-102 loss to the Rockets on Monday. The team has dealt with injuries, but Durant remains impressed with Flagg’s potential.
Durant’s Praise for Flagg
“I think that he’s going to be a hell of a player,” Durant told DallasHoopsJournal.com. “I think that he’s going to be such a nightmare… that… he’ll be considered one of the best of all time.”
Flagg’s Early Performance and Role
At just 18 years old, the 6’9” forward has already demonstrated glimpses of elite two-way ability. Under coach Jason Kidd, Flagg has taken on the point guard role, averaging 13.8 points, 6.5 rebounds, and 3 assists per game. Although these stats are modest, Durant believes they don’t capture the entire picture.
Durant on Flagg’s Positional Transition
“I think that you’re going from in college playing four and five to playing point guard, two guard,” Durant explained. “That’s going to be an adjustment period for everybody. I hate to inject myself into his [situation], but I came in college playing four, five. I came to the league playing a two.”
Durant highlights the challenges Flagg faces adapting to new positions, suggesting patience is needed as he grows into his role.
Author’s summary: Kevin Durant foresees Cooper Flagg’s rise as an all-time great despite the Mavericks' difficult season start, emphasizing Flagg’s impressive versatility and growth potential.