Cooper Flagg didn’t wilt without Anthony Davis and now Mavs hope they flourish together
The Dallas Mavericks secured a 118-108 victory over the Miami Heat on Wednesday night, extending their winning streak to three games. The game saw rookie No. 1 overall pick Cooper Flagg making crucial plays alongside All-Star Anthony Davis. Flagg’s jumper and block followed by a contested layup on an assist from Davis sealed the win for the Mavericks.
Flagg had to start his NBA career without star guard Kyrie Irving, who is recovering from an ACL tear, and also endured a month without Davis due to a left calf strain. Despite facing challenges, Flagg showcased his skills and resilience on the court.
The Mavericks had a rocky start to the season, but consecutive victories over Denver and the Heat have shown their potential. Coach Jason Kidd praised Flagg for stepping up in clutch situations and handling the pressure of leading the team without Davis or Irving on the floor.
During Davis’ absence, Flagg had impressive performances, including a 29-point game against New Orleans and becoming the youngest player in NBA history to score 35 points against the Los Angeles Clippers. Flagg expressed gratitude for the learning experience during that period and believes it will benefit the team moving forward.
In the game against the Heat, Flagg led Dallas with 22 points and has been shooting 57% since Davis returned to the lineup. The presence of veterans like Klay Thompson, who has emerged from a shooting slump, has also supported Flagg’s development on the court.
Davis’ return has provided a boost to the Mavericks, with his ability to draw defenders and create space for teammates like Flagg and Thompson. The team envisions a successful formula with Davis, Flagg, and potentially Irving working together to achieve their goals.
Davis and Flagg combined to score the final eight points against the Heat, showcasing their chemistry and ability to close out games. With the team starting to click and key players finding their rhythm, the Mavericks look poised for success as they continue their season.
___
AP NBA: https://apnews.com/hub/nba
