The Dallas Mavericks lost 111–107 to the Houston Rockets on Saturday, extending their losing streak to four games. Despite the defeat, rookie Cooper Flagg continued his standout season with 34 points, 12 rebounds, and five assists, following a 49-point outing earlier in the week. Houston improved to 30–17, while Dallas fell to 19–30.
Kevin Durant, Houston’s star forward, praised Flagg’s development after the game. “He's figured it out,” Durant said. “He understands that he's tough to stop.” Durant had previously called Flagg a future “one of the best of all time” due to his versatility, noting his ability to shoot, drive, and defend.
Flagg, the No. 1 overall pick, is averaging 19.8 points, 6.6 rebounds, and 4.1 assists per game. His recent performances include becoming the youngest player in NBA history to record back-to-back 30-point double-doubles.
Meanwhile, Mavericks head coach Jason Kidd defended his usage of Flagg amid criticism. When asked about playing the 6-foot-9 rookie as a point guard rather than a forward, Kidd responded with expletives, dismissing media criticism. “I don’t give a s--- about the criticism,” he said. “I’ve played this game at a very high level. I know what the f--- I’m doing.” Kidd, a Hall of Famer, argued that his coaching experience justifies his decisions, refusing further questions before ending the press conference.
The Mavericks have faced scrutiny over their roster management, particularly regarding Flagg’s role. Kidd’s aggressive defense of his strategy highlights the tension between innovation and tradition in modern NBA coaching.