The Dallas Mavericks’ Cooper Flagg experiment is off to a successful start so far. The number one pick impressed in the Summer League and has looked sharp during preseason. Albeit the Mavericks suffered a surprise knockout at the hands of the Charlotte Hornets in the last game. But every preseason game presents a chance to improve leading up to the regular season.
Their next challenge is against the Utah Jazz. Those familiar with the rookies know it’s the battle of the lottery picks in this year’s draft. Like Flagg, Ace Bailey has found immediate success playing for the Jazz during the preseason. Hence, the anticipation has built up. But will Flagg be there to face one of the best talents from his draft class?
So far, Flagg has yet to suffer from any injury scare. The 18-year-old’s advanced game has translated seamlessly with the Mavs. Likewise, he’s an offensive fulcrum, and Jason Kidd is slowly starting to ramp up his minutes. He wrapped his 24 minutes vs. Charlotte with 11 points, 4 assists, 3 rebounds, 3 steals, and efficient shooting (4-of-8 FG, 1-of-2 3PT). So far, there’s no indication the pattern will change. All signs point towards the Duke sensation suiting up against the Jazz.
With just two games remaining before the regular season begins, Kidd could opt to use his starting unit for greater stretches tonight. Even in limited capacity, Cooper Flagg has shown his versatility, contributing on both ends of the floor while being efficient. Moreover, with Kyrie Irving out, Kidd wants to test the dynamic forward’s skillset.
Against the Hornets, he carried the ball and acted as a floor general. The Mavericks’ head coach could look to do the same against the Jazz. But where can you watch the phenom in his next NBA game?
The Utah Jazz will host the Dallas Mavericks in their upcoming preseason matchup at the Delta Center in Salt Lake City. Bailey has helped reenergize Jazz fans. However, their team is hobbled. Notably, Lauri Markannen, Isaiah Collier, Walker Kessler, and Kyle Filipowski are all questionable to play against Cooper Flagg and the Mavericks.
The game is scheduled for 9:00 PM ET. For fans who want to watch the action live, they can tune in to Fubo TV. They offer streaming for every preseason game, including free games for new subscribers. Fans can also use the NBA’s League Pass, which broadcasts every league game throughout the season.
Dallas might start D’Angelo Russell, Klay Thompson, Cooper Flagg, Anthony Davis, and Dereck Lively II. Utah’s projected starting five includes Keyonte George, Svi Mykhailiuk, Ace Bailey, Taylor Hendricks, and Jusuf Nurkic.
Given the number of injuries on the Jazz and the Mavericks’ stacked lineup, the latter are seen as clear favorites. Keeping conditioning in mind, Flagg and other core rotation players could feature more against the Jazz. Additionally, the team wants to get back on the right track after slipping up against the Hornets.
Who do you think will win this matchup? Let us know your views in the comments below.
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