News - Kyrie Irving Champions Rookie Cooper Flagg: A Future NBA Trailblazer

Kyrie Irving, the seasoned guard for the Dallas Mavericks, hasn't had the chance yet to share the court with the teen sensation, Cooper Flagg, owing to his ongoing recovery from a torn ACL. Despite this, he has showered the 19-year-old rookie with glowing praise, underscoring the unique impact Flagg has already made in the league. During a visit to the 2026 NBA All-Star Game held at the Intuit Dome in Inglewood, California, Irving shared his thoughts on Flagg's burgeoning career, despite Flagg missing the event due to a left foot sprain. Irving, a Duke alumnus himself, highlighted the young player's potential to redefine the game in Dallas' favor, predicting that Flagg will be 'chasing history' as his career progresses. Flagg’s meteoric rise has not gone unnoticed — scoring 35 points in a single game at the young age of 18, a feat achieved only by LeBron James before him. His standout performance includes an impressive 49-point game against the Charlotte Hornets on January 29, 2026, showcasing the fierce rivalry against his former Duke teammate, Kon Knueppel. Contending heavily for the NBA Rookie of the Year award, Flagg's primary competition includes Knueppel and Philadelphia 76ers' VJ Edgecombe. Although sidelined by a sprain, his versatility in adopting a temporary point guard role speaks volumes about his adaptability and promise for the future. Coupled with Irving's words is his own dedication to recovery; he remains hopeful about a robust return to the Mavericks' lineup, committed to exceeding his previous benchmarks. His emphasis on achieving 'a hundred and fifty percent health' reassures fans of his unwavering dedication and desire to elevate the Mavs' gameplay with Flagg at his flank. As both players strive towards new horizons — Irving in his recovery and Flagg continuing his extraordinary ascent — the Mavericks are poised for an era-defining season ahead. The union of a seasoned star and a prodigy in the making is set to redefine the contours of NBA history.