11-30-2025, 06:16 PM
(11-30-2025, 05:49 PM)Winter Wrote: I think much of that is Flagg deferring to others. It appears to me Kidd has told him that he's really good in the paint, and when he gets in there don't look to pass on the wings unless you're double teamed or it's crowded. The percentage of him shooting inside the paint is better than almost anyone else outside the paint. He needs to be better at making defensive reads, but we can see that I think.
He just needs to be taking more shots and maybe taking 2-3 shots away from people like PJ or Naji or some other players. He needs to be the man the second half of this season. The "man" sounds pretty strange in this context. The kid can barely grow a moustache.
I have thought the same about Flagg shooting more. I think he will too.
Although, I also think what makes him unique is he isn't going to be a guy who stat hounds much. He will make the right play. I think most young players will look for their own. That is natural. I also think that could have created some jealousy with the veterans. We have seen a lot of players who start this way but as they mature they change a little. I mean the media and the fans do focus on these stats. I hope Cooper doesn't change. Now, I also don't want him standing in the corner either.
His freshman year at Duke was what I hope we see. There was little doubt he was the best player in the country, but didn't try to force that every play. He let others shine. Surround him with smart, winning players and you will soon see more wins than losses.