Sports News Report
League: NBASport: BasketballCountry: United StatesCategory: Scores & Results

Cooper Flagg's trainer downplays LeBron comparisons after rookie success

Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Sep 17, 2026, 2:20 AM

Last updated Sep 17, 2026

Cooper Flagg's trainer downplays LeBron comparisons after rookie success
Summary

Cooper Flagg had an impressive rookie season with the Dallas Mavericks, averaging 21.0 points, 6.7 rebounds, and 4.5 assists. His performance included becoming the youngest player to score over 50 points in a game and breaking a record for most 40-point games by a teenager. Despite these achievements, his trainer, Matt MacKenzie, stated that Flagg needs to continue developing before being compared to LeBron James. MacKenzie emphasized that Flagg possesses the potential to be one of the greats but still has a long way to go. Looking ahead, expectations remain high for Flagg this season, especially with Kyrie Irving returning from injury and a new head coach.

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Yahoo Sports
Status Watch
  • •Flagg averaged 21.0 points, 6.7 rebounds, 4.5 assists last season.
  • •He set records for scoring as a teenager during his rookie year.
  • •Trainer MacKenzie notes Flagg needs to build a more extensive résumé.
  • •High expectations for Flagg continue with Irving's return and new coaching staff.
Latest Updates
  • 2:20 AMYahoo Sports — ‘Needs to Continue to Keep Working’ — Cooper Flagg’s Trainer Details Why Mavericks Phenom Isn’t On LeBron James’ Level
What they're saying
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Cooper Flagg enjoyed a stellar rookie year in the NBA, and his performances even drew comparisons to LeBron James. However, his longtime trainer has downplayed those expectations, claiming that the Dallas Mavericks star still has a long way to go.

Related Teams & Leagues
Dallas MavericksNBABasketball

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