Dallas Mavericks rookie Cooper Flagg has been receiving comparisons to NBA greats with some saying he is one of the more complete players that entered the league from college in recent years. Some thought he has similarities to Lebron James for his size and IQ while others think he can be a Jayson Tatum copy because of his offensive arsenal. Some also compare him to Andre Igoudala.
Another NBA great he is being compared to is Grant Hill.
Los Angeles Lakers met the Mavs in a pre-season game, giving head coach JJ Redick a close look at the talent the 2025 no. 1 pick has. He thought the Duke standout is promising but in terms of comparison to the seven-time All-Star, he does not see it.
“He doesn’t really remind me of anybody,” Redick said directly when asked if he is reminded by Flagg of someone.
“I know the Grant Hill comparisons is getting thrown out a lot right now. Cooper is his own special player.”
Redick also pointed out what makes Flagg stand out.
“His defensive instincts and playmaking ability far exceed most 18-year olds. He’s a worker and I expect him to develop into a really good shooter.”
JJ Redick:
“He doesn’t really remind me of anybody. I know the Grant Hill comparisons is getting thrown out a lot right now. Cooper is his own special player. His defensive instincts and playmaking ability far exceed most 18-year olds” pic.twitter.com/hpAahQRqR3
— Oh No He Didn’t (@ohnohedidnt24) October 16, 2025
Cooper Flagg is ready for the big league
Mavs played four pre-season games and Flagg was present in all of them, averaging in double digit scoring. He needed that test and now, he is ready for the real one.
Head coach Jason Kidd said the kid passed every test they have given him.
“For us it’s to give him the answers to the test and so far he’s passed every test,” he said during a courtside interview.
“We just want Cooper to be an 18-year old who’s gonna turn 19…and be a kid. Enjoy this journey.”
Flagg finds himself in a good spot as a rookie as he is surrounded by veterans who can help him.
For the latest Basketball Content
Make sure you are always updated on your favorite basketball players and teams. Follow us @HardwoodHeroics for the latest and trending news about NBA, college basketball, and more. Stay updated by reading more of our NBA articles by clicking here and college basketball by clicking here!
