Kyrie Irving’s Support for Cooper Flagg
Kyrie Irving approached Cooper Flagg near the Dallas Mavericks’ bench, sporting a broad smile that contrasted with the scoreboard showing the Mavs trailing the San Antonio Spurs by 15 points in Flagg’s highly anticipated NBA debut.
Flagg’s Challenging Start
At that moment in the third quarter, Flagg had more turnovers than points. As he returned to the court after a timeout, Irving enthusiastically encouraged him, saying, “Just keep your head up!” Both Irving and teammate Anthony Davis were well aware of the high expectations that come with being the No. 1 draft pick, but unlike Flagg, they began their careers on teams undergoing significant rebuilds.
The Weight of Expectations
Flagg faced a different situation; he joined a veteran team with immediate win-now ambitions, especially after the Mavericks’ recent Finals appearance. Irving emphasized the importance of enjoying the game while navigating the pressure of being a top draft pick. “It’s crucial that he stays focused and doesn’t feel overwhelmed,” Irving said.
Mixed Results in His Early Games
In his first week, Flagg experienced ups and downs, starting as point guard, a role he hadn’t played before. He indeed showcased his potential with a highlight dunk but also struggled in games where he didn’t score. Coach Jason Kidd noted Flagg’s age as a factor; learning from these experiences would serve him well in the long run.
Preparing for Added Pressures
By playing for a team coming off a dramatic trade, Flagg was acutely aware of the pressures that accompanied his status as a highly touted prospect. Reflecting on how quickly everything changed for him, Flagg mentioned, “It’s been a whirlwind, just trying to adjust.” Despite the spotlight, he remained focused on his development.
Flagg’s Relationship with the Fans
Despite the recent turmoil, Mavericks fans have embraced Flagg, with his jersey becoming increasingly popular. However, the fans still express their displeasure towards management, demanding accountability for recent decisions. Flagg, meanwhile, stays focused on the game and learning from the veterans, tuning out distractions.
Future Aspirations and Team Dynamics
Flagg is stepping into a significant role following the departure of superstar Luka Doncic. While he is not expected to match Doncic’s impressive stats immediately, he is focused on improving and helping the team win. Irving and Davis have both taken on roles as supportive veterans, assuring Flagg that they will shoulder the pressure while he develops into the player he aspires to be.
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