Richard Jefferson on Kyrie Irving’s Impact for Cooper Flagg and the Mavericks
The Dallas Mavericks have had a challenging start to the 2025–26 NBA season. Despite drafting top prospect Cooper Flagg, the team sits at 2-5, ranking near the bottom of the Western Conference.
Flagg’s Early Struggles
Rookie forward Cooper Flagg, selected first overall, has yet to make a major winning impact. He currently averages 13.6 points and 6.3 rebounds per game while shooting 38.8% from the floor.
The Absence of Kyrie Irving
The Mavericks have been without Kyrie Irving, who continues recovering from an ACL injury suffered last season. Without him, the team lacks an experienced floor general. Though D’Angelo Russell was signed, Dallas chose to let Flagg shoulder more of the offensive responsibility.
Richard Jefferson’s Perspective
Richard Jefferson believes that Cooper Flagg’s performance and confidence will rise once Kyrie Irving returns to the lineup.
Jefferson expects Irving’s return to relieve pressure on the rookie, allowing him to integrate more fluidly into the team’s system and play to his potential.
Current Outlook
- Mavericks record: 2–5
- Cooper Flagg’s averages: 13.6 PPG, 6.3 RPG, 38.8% FG
- Kyrie Irving still rehabbing from ACL injury
Author’s Summary
Richard Jefferson anticipates that Kyrie Irving’s comeback will spark a resurgence in both Cooper Flagg’s play and the Mavericks’ season momentum.