Cooper Flagg discloses reason for ‘flat’ 2-point outing against the Oklahoma City Thunder

Against the Thunder, Flagg struggled, failing to record a single assist, grabbing only two rebounds, and missing all of his three-point attempts.

Though facing the defending champions and a top defensive unit offers some explanation for the decline in form, the 18-year-old highlighted an additional reason after the game.

He said that playing on back-to-back nights threw him off his game, admitting it was something he was not fully prepared for.

“I think it’s just you got to be prepared. It’s just you got to find your routine and what works for you. I’ll be able to work through it.

“I was definitely a little flat tonight. I mean, it showed all night long just being flat out there.”

He added: “I wasn’t making the same plays I think I’m able to make when I’m fresh, but got to find ways to be able to play through it and still contribute to win.”

Rookie faces reality of NBA schedule demands

Back-to-back games in the NBA come with a different kind of intensity that Flagg has not experienced before.

Getting through this is not just about skill – which Flagg clearly has – but also about preparation and understanding how to manage the grind of the schedule.

After his first back-to-back set, the 18-year-old was seen with his shoulder wrapped. While it is not necessarily a cause for concern, it does highlight how tough the transition can be for rookies adjusting to the demands of an NBA season.

Flagg has already recognised he needs to do more to prepare for these stretches if he is going to stay consistent and contribute the way he wants to in Dallas.