Cooper Flagg already makes NBA history, Spoelstra: “He’s a winner”
Cooper Flagg delivers a record-setting performance against the Miami Heat. Dallas gets back to winning, while Giannis Antetokounmpo and his teammates fall to 0-4
Not even Giannis Antetokounmpo’s first triple-double with the Miami Heat was enough to end Erik Spoelstra’s team’s losing streak. Cooper Flagg spoiled the evening, leading the Dallas Mavericks to a 113-109 victory with a record-setting performance.
The rookie finished with 29 points, 11 assists, 6 rebounds, 5 steals and 3 blocks, showing once again that he can make an impact in practically every aspect of the game.
Those numbers made him the youngest player in NBA history to record at least 25 points, 10 assists, 5 rebounds and 5 steals in the same game.
Record-setting Cooper Flagg earns praise from Dusty May
After the game, coach Dusty May highlighted Flagg’s ability to find openings in the opposing defense, choosing when to attack the basket and when to involve his teammates.
All he needed was an opening. He’s a handful when he gets into the paint and finishes like that. Even with three players ready to contest him, he could still get to the rim
Dusty May
The performance illustrated the Dallas youngster’s complete game, with the ability to make decisive contributions on offense and at the defensive end.
The Mavericks improve to 2-2, getting back in the win column with contributions from P.J. Washington and Kyrie Irving, too.
But his own coach wasn’t the only one to recognize Flagg’s performance. Heat coach Erik Spoelstra also had high praise for the rookie.
He’s a winning player, a force of nature with his style of play. He imposes his competitive nature on every possession. For a player that young, I think it’s unique to be able to impact the game even without scoring
Erik Spoelstra
Heat lose again despite Giannis’ triple-double
While Dallas has reason to smile, Miami’s situation continues to grow more complicated.
The Heat suffer their fourth loss in as many games, reinforcing the struggles already evident early in the season. This time, not even 29 points, 14 rebounds and 11 assists from Giannis Antetokounmpo, his first triple-double with his new team, were enough.
The result further underlines how much work Miami needs to do to find the right balance, especially considering the talent at Spoelstra’s disposal.
Dallas, by contrast, can build on the reliability of its young phenom. Flagg has already shown he can score, create for teammates and make a difference defensively.