Gained a Lot of Respect’ — Cooper Flagg Reflects on Tough Transition to Playing Point Guard 1 Mar 5, 2026; Orlando, Florida, USA; Dallas Mavericks forward Cooper Flagg (32) shoots the ball against the Orlando Magic in the first quarter at Kia Center. Mandatory Credit: Nathan Ray Seebeck-Imagn Images

Mavericks’ Cooper Flagg Delivers Ruthless 45-Point Statement vs Lakers Amid ROTY Buzz

Originally posted on Hardwood Heroics | By Reign Amurao | Last updated Apr 6, 2026 2:03 AM ET

Dallas Mavericks forward Cooper Flagg had one of the best rookie performances in NBA history on Sunday against the Los Angeles Lakers. He was coming off a 51-point game on the Mavericks’ 138-127 loss to the Orlando Magic on Friday. While some fans have not moved on from his career-high game, he continued his strong surge and had a 45-point outing against the Lakers, leading to a 134-128 victory.

Flagg added eight rebounds, nine assists and two steals on 51.9% shooting. The former Duke star carried the team and was the only player to score more than 20 points. Many fans believe that his back-to-back outstanding scoring games have pushed his case to win the Rookie of the Year.

After the game, head coach Jason Kidd was asked if Cooper Flagg was making a statement amid the buzz about him potentially winning the award. However, Kidd downplayed it as Flagg’s “closing statement.” Instead, he spoke highly about how the 19-year-old forward has stayed consistent all season long.

“I just think he’s doing what he’s been doing all season. Being able to play different positions, being able to be uncomfortable, has never complained, and has delivered for us,” Kidd said.

Jason Kidd on Cooper Flagg’s push for Rookie of the Year:

“When you talk about a closing statement, I don’t know if he’s making a closing statement. I just think he’s doing what he’s been doing all season. Being able to play different positions, being able to be uncomfortable,… pic.twitter.com/fDDXmgSoNG

— Noah Weber (@noahweber00) April 6, 2026

Flagg’s high-scoring performance over the past two games led him to make NBA history. He was the first player since Allen Iverson to have back-to-back 40+ point games. He’s also the record holder for the most 40-point games as a teenager, with four.

Cooper Flagg is Motivated to Turn Things Around for the Mavericks Next Season

The 2025-26 season has not been kind to the Mavericks. They’ve suffered multiple injuries and gone through roster changes. Additionally, the franchise has missed the playoffs for the second straight year.

Despite the difficulties, Cooper Flagg thought back on the season and became inspired to make changes for the upcoming one.