Cooper Flagg set for key role with Dallas Mavericks, as NBA insider spot team plans

Mavericks’ media guide lists Flagg as both a guard and forward, as revealed by Dallas Insider Mike Curtis.

This dual listing speaks to his versatility, fitting well with coach Jason Kidd’s plans for how he intends to use him.

Kidd envisions Flagg taking on a point forward role, much like Grant Hill did during his playing days.

Flagg showed in college that he can handle primary ball-handling duties, so there is good reason to think he could step into that role in the NBA too.

Kidd has used this strategy before, notably with Giannis Antetokounmpo when he was coaching the Bucks.

Flagg may be asked to run the offence from day one

Dallas’s point guard uncertainty might push Flagg into a larger playmaking role early in the season. D’Angelo Russell’s game has slipped in recent years, and he is no longer the reliable playmaker he once was. That decline might push the Mavericks to look for other options.

Handing a rookie primary playmaking duties is always a gamble, but Flagg’s background at Duke and his strong feel for the game suggest he might be up for it.

Dallas really needs him to make an immediate impact wherever he plays. How he progresses is crucial for the team in both the short and long-term.