Dallas Mavericks rookie Cooper Flagg has been making new records since his selection after the 2025 NBA draft, but nobody would have imagined him joining the chorus of elites, where Michael Jordan has made his seat strong.
Cooper Flagg Becomes Just the Third Rookie Ever to Match Michael Jordan & Ron Harper’s 40-Game Feat
Mavs rookie just joined the rarest company, becoming just the third player since the NBA-ABA merger in 1976 to record at least 750 points, 150 assists, 50 steals, and 30 blocks within his first 40 career games.
For the unversed, only two other players had hit that legendary mark, with Michael Jordan and Ron Harper. Flaggs became the third player in history to reach the milestone. He hit that record against the Mavs’ very recent 118-109 loss to the Denver Nuggets and is currently driving the Rookie of the Year seat.
After the game, Flagg’s stat sheet was loaded with a total of 752 points, 167 assists, and 250 rebounds through his first 40 matches. Those numbers reflect complete dominance for a 19-year-old thrust into a starting role from day one.
But he couldn’t touch Jordan’s total of 1,013 points, 210 assists, 74 steals, and 41 blocks in his first 40 games during the 1984-85 season.
ESPN’s Kendrick Perkins recently turned heads by calling Flagg the “White LeBron,” citing his ability to impact the game on every level. Not to mention that bold comparison drew criticism from some corners, but Flagg’s production backs up the hype.
However, the 19-year-old had to leave the game against Nuggets early due to injury. Reports have confirmed he likely suffered an ankle injury.
Cooper Flagg Exits Mavericks Game With Ankle Injury
Flagg did not return after halftime of Wednesday’s loss to the Nuggets because of a sprained left ankle. He reportedly twisted the ankle with 6:01 left in the second quarter while defending Denver’s Peyton Watson on a drive.
Coach Jason Kidd said, “He stepped on someone’s foot. Last game, he twisted his ankle too. We decided to hold him [out] for the second half.” So, he did return to the court but was not in any condition to continue his play.
In 15 minutes, he put six points along with one rebound, one assist, and one block in the Mavs’ sheet. The injury setback ended his 39 consecutive games scoring in double figures.
