Mavericks' Cooper Flagg Embraces Point Guard Role Under Jason Kidd

Rookie sensation discusses adjusting to new position and learning from Dirk Nowitzki

Published on Feb. 7, 2026

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Dallas Mavericks rookie Cooper Flagg, the team's first-round draft pick last year, has been asked by head coach Jason Kidd to play point guard despite his versatile skillset. Flagg initially struggled with the transition but is now thriving in the role, averaging a team-high 20.4 points, 6.6 rebounds, 4.2 assists and 1.2 steals per game. In a conversation with Mavericks legend Dirk Nowitzki, Flagg discussed the challenges of the position change and how he's now reaping the benefits of Kidd's decision.

Why it matters

Flagg's successful adaptation to playing point guard is a testament to his basketball IQ and versatility, qualities that made him the top draft pick. The Mavericks are building their team around the young star, and his development at the point will be crucial to the team's future success.

The details

Kidd recognized Flagg's diverse skillset and asked the 6'9" rookie to play point guard, a challenging transition for the young player. Flagg said it took time to adjust, but he's now thriving in the role and putting up impressive numbers. Nowitzki, who was known primarily as a scorer during his Hall of Fame career, praised Flagg's well-rounded game and said he admires the rookie's ability to impact the game in multiple ways.

  • Flagg was the Mavericks' first-round draft pick in 2025.
  • Kidd asked Flagg to play point guard at the start of the 2025-26 NBA season.

The players

Cooper Flagg

A rookie sensation for the Dallas Mavericks, the team's first-round draft pick in 2025 who has been asked to play point guard despite his versatile skillset.

Jason Kidd

The head coach of the Dallas Mavericks, who recognized Flagg's diverse abilities and asked the rookie to play point guard.

Dirk Nowitzki

A Hall of Fame player who spent his entire NBA career with the Dallas Mavericks and is now mentoring the young stars like Flagg.

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What they’re saying

“J. Kidd wanted to stick me into the fire right away, and now I am reaping the benefits.”

— Cooper Flagg, Mavericks Rookie (NBA on Prime)

“The only thing I was looking to do was score. You can do so much more and I admire everything you do.”

— Dirk Nowitzki, Mavericks Legend (NBA on Prime)

What’s next

Flagg will look to continue his strong play as the Mavericks push for a playoff spot in the highly competitive Western Conference.

The takeaway

Flagg's successful transition to point guard showcases his versatility and basketball IQ, qualities that make him a promising young star in the NBA. The Mavericks' decision to build around Flagg could pay dividends as he continues to develop under the guidance of veteran players like Dirk Nowitzki.