Cooper Flagg played his 41st game of his rookie season on Monday night against the New York Knicks, prompting comparisons to some of the NBA’s brightest young talents. In particular, analysts are drawn to how Flagg’s inaugural performance stacks up against Luka Doncic’s first half-season in the league.
While Doncic was not the number one overall pick in the 2018 draft, his prowess on the court has raised questions about how he slipped past teams that opted for DeAndre Ayton, Marvin Bagley Jr., and, technically, Trae Young. His outstanding early career has the Dallas Mavericks hoping Flagg’s trajectory might mirror, or even exceed, that of Doncic.
When comparing their first 41 games, Doncic registered impressive statistics: 43% shooting from the field, 37% from beyond the arc, with averages of 20 points, 6.7 rebounds, and 5 assists per game. In total, he amassed 822 points, 275 rebounds, and 207 assists during that stretch. His standout performance occurred on December 20, 2018, where he poured in 32 points against the Los Angeles Clippers in a game that showcased his all-around abilities.
On the other hand, Flagg has demonstrated his scoring potential with slightly better shooting efficiency. He has achieved 48% from the field and averages 18.8 points, 6.3 rebounds, and 4.1 assists per game. His highest scoring outing came on December 15, 2025, against the Utah Jazz, where he netted 42 points along with 7 rebounds and 6 assists. Overall, Flagg’s first 41 games totals include 770 points, 257 rebounds, and 170 assists, highlighting his solid performance as a rookie.
It’s crucial to recognize that each rookie enters a unique situation upon being drafted. Doncic’s entry into the league came with a stable environment and support from veteran players like DeAndre Jordan and J.J. Barea, who guided him through the transition. In contrast, Flagg has faced a more complex scenario with the Mavericks grappling with roster inconsistencies and an off-court mess after the firing of general manager Nico Harrison due to a poor trade for Anthony Davis, who has struggled with injuries since joining the team.
Early in the season, Flagg was even played out of position at point guard, a decision that didn’t pan out well, but the coaching staff has since placed him in a more suitable role. The forward has benefitted from a newly formed guard rotation, allowing him to showcase his skills better and produce numbers comparable to those of Doncic and other recent number one overall picks.
As Flagg continues to navigate the challenges of his rookie season, the performances he has delivered thus far should encourage Mavericks fans. With plenty of games still ahead, there is optimism surrounding Flagg’s development, and he may yet rise to the occasion, further solidifying his status as a potential future star in the NBA.