League: NBA Sport: Basketball Country: United States Category: Scores & Results

Cooper Flagg named dark horse MVP candidate for 2026-27 season

Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Sep 25, 2026, 3:05 AM

Last updated Sep 25, 2026

Cooper Flagg named dark horse MVP candidate for 2026-27 season

Summary

Dallas Mavericks forward Cooper Flagg has been identified as a dark horse candidate for the MVP award as he enters his second NBA season. Following a standout rookie year, Flagg will take on a larger role with the Mavericks even with Kyrie Irving returning from injury. ClutchPoints analyst Brett Siegel highlighted Flagg's potential impact this season, predicting he could outshine other candidates. The MVP race may also see Oklahoma City Thunder guard Shai Gilgeous-Alexander facing challenges due to possible voter fatigue after winning the award twice. Flagg's performance could elevate the Mavericks as a competitive force in the league.

Source Links

Yahoo Sports

Status Watch

•Flagg enters second season with increased responsibilities.
•He won Rookie of the Year in 2025-26.
•Siegel predicts Flagg as a potential MVP contender.
•Gilgeous-Alexander may face voter fatigue this season.
•Mavericks aim for a strong showing following last year's results.

Latest Updates

3:05 AMYahoo Sports — NBA news: Cooper Flagg named 'dark horse' MVP candidate to dethrone SGA

What they're saying

"
Dallas Mavericks forward Cooper Flagg will try to prove that the so-called sophomore slump is just a myth as he enters his second year in the NBA. After his sensational performance in his rookie year, Flagg will carry a heavier load for the Mavericks as the franchise cornerstone. Even with the return of Kyrie Irving from his ACL injury, it has […] The post NBA news: Cooper Flagg named 'dark horse' MVP candidate to dethrone SGA appeared first on ClutchPoints.
— Yahoo Sports

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