According to reports, the Dallas Mavericks have opted to end Cooper Flagg’s Summer League career after just two games, after his spectacular 31-point performance against the San Antonio Spurs. This is a thorough explanation of what transpired, the reasons behind the Mavs’ actions, and the implications for Flagg’s rookie career.

A Rocky Start, Then a Breakout

Debut Jitters

On July 10, 2025, Flagg had his first appearance in the Summer League against the Los Angeles Lakers. He had some impressive moments, including defensive steals, a strong block, and a highlight play when he helped teammate Ryan Nembhard win the game. However, he struggled offensively, going 5 for 21 and scoring only 10 points.

Spurs vs. Redemption

Two days later, Flagg made a spectacular comeback, scoring 31 points on 10 for 21 shooting, including 2 for 13 from the free-throw line and 3 triples, along with 4 rebounds, an assist, and a block. Despite Dallas’s 76-69 loss, Flagg’s offensive performance was outstanding.

Why Shut Him Down?

Insiders and experts indicate a careful, strategic trend:

Protecting Top Picks

Flagg, who was selected with the first overall pick, follows in the footsteps of other high draft picks, such as Victor Wembanyama and Zaccharie Risacher, who, as a precaution, only participated in two Summer League games.

Mission accomplished

Mavericks general manager Nico Harrison and coach Jason Kidd probably determined that Flagg’s versatility, point-guard handling, shot-creation, and mental toughness were sufficient to shift the team’s focus to long-term growth.

Avoiding injury

Flagg seemed to sprain his wrist on a tumble toward the end of the game against the Spurs, which served as a stark reminder of the dangers.

What the Coaches Say

Jason Kidd’s deliberate design

It is obvious that Kidd’s Summer League philosophy, which calls for Flagg to “be uncomfortable,” including switching to playmaking point guard duties, was deliberate. Kidd welcomed errors as teaching moments.

Praise from the pros

Josh Broghamer, the coach of the Summer League, praised Flagg for contributing off the ball and making “the right plays.”

Flaws and Fixes

Some issues arose in spite of the explosion:

Consistency in free throws: Despite starting the Summer League with a high collegiate %, Flagg acknowledged that missed free throws were a source of frustration and apparently prompted criticism from his mother.

Shooting mechanics: NBA expert Tim Legler noted that Flagg has to improve his shooting technique because of a wrist turnover issue that might impair his long-term 3-point efficiency.

What Comes Next?

With Summer League behind him, here’s what’s expected next:

Preseason and rookie training

Following early Summer League experience, Flagg will naturally turn his attention to training camp and preseason play.

In Dallas, heavy lifting

For Dallas’ backcourt dynamics, Flagg’s versatility—alternating between forward and guard positions—could be crucial while Kyrie Irving returns from ACL surgery.

Focus on skill development

Expect rigorous training to enhance playmaking under pressure, deep-range shooting, and free-throw dependability, guided by experts like Chip Engelland or seasoned voices like Klay Thompson.

Final Thoughts

Flagg’s Summer League career was short but very influential; he quickly gained Dallas’ trust, overcome early setbacks, and shown exceptional playmaking and scoring abilities. Shutting him down is a calculated move that sets Flagg up to achieve his full potential when the regular season starts. It is not an indication that he is faltering.

The focus will continue to be on how fast he fixes his mechanical issues and gets back to being as consistent as an NBA player as he moves into preseason preparation. His plan already includes cooperative coaching, physical maturity, and mental toughness, based on his success in the Summer League.