Cooper Flagg is delivering what might be one of the most astonishing rookie performances in NBA history since the league began tracking stats in the 1996-97 season. The No. 1 overall pick last summer has impressed with a standout debut season for the Dallas Mavericks, especially with his early influence in clutch moments. Dallas leads the league with 27 clutch games, where the score difference is five points or less in the final five minutes or overtime. Flagg has already scored 70 clutch points in 25 games and is still early into the season.
To compare, Victor Wembanyama notched 84 clutch points as a rookie, Anthony Edwards had 43, and Cade Cunningham 67. Only six rookies have surpassed 100 clutch points since tracking started. Flagg could hit that milestone by the All-Star break, and if Dallas keeps playing many tight games, he might break Brandon Jennings’ rookie record of 138 clutch points by season’s end. Remarkably, Flagg ranks 6th in clutch points across the entire league, ahead of stars like Luka Doncic, Stephen Curry, Kevin Durant, Anthony Edwards, and James Harden.
Mavericks coach Jason Kidd has prioritized getting Flagg the ball in high-pressure moments. Though the team’s clutch record stands at 11 wins and 14 losses, Flagg has shown fearlessness. A highlight was his fearless shot against Giannis Antetokounmpo in November, where he adjusted mid-air despite the size mismatch. Flagg’s clutch shots are rarely easy, often facing tight defense and time pressure, yet he remains composed and efficient. Kidd praises his calmness and confidence, especially for an 18-year-old.
Flagg, who turned 19 in December, favors attacking near the rim and has an efficient midrange game, with 50% of his shots coming around the free throw line—ranking in the 87th percentile. This skill translates well in clutch situations, where he’s gaining confidence taking mid-range and even three-point shots. His style is methodical and patient rather than explosive, reminiscent of veterans like Kevin Durant or Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, playing with a quiet dominance.
With 46 games left, it’s possible Flagg could surpass Jennings’ rookie clutch scoring record, depending on Dallas’ competitiveness and game situations. Even if the team halves the number of clutch games moving forward, Flagg would only need about 3 clutch points per game, a tangible target given his current average of 2.8 points in clutch moments. Yet, team dynamics and potential roster changes could influence this outcome.
Despite stiff competition for awards like Rookie of the Year or Clutch Player of the Year, Flagg’s remarkable ability to perform under pressure signals a bright future. Players like Gilgeous-Alexander and Cunningham have strong clutch point totals and winning records heading into the season’s second half, making the awards competitive. Still, Flagg’s emergence as a clutch performer marks him as a player to watch.
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Fan Take: Cooper Flagg’s early dominance in clutch situations is a thrilling development for basketball fans, signaling the arrival of a poised and fearless new star. His ability to handle pressure with calm and efficiency not only excites Dallas fans but also promises to elevate the intensity and drama of NBA games in the years ahead.
