The Dallas Mavericks are widely considered to be one of the NBA's most underachieving teams this season with a record of 11-17 and coach Jason Kidd facing the heat. The Mavs' struggles have been offset by the emergence of rookie sensation Cooper Flagg who has flashed elite scoring skills in recent weeks to go with his elite playmaking skills.

It's too early to determine Flagg's long-term status, but his rookie numbers are comparable to those LeBron James had for his rookie season.

A history-making performance by Cooper Flagg pushed him to No. 1 in USA TODAY's NBA rookie rankings. He isn't the only player to move up (or down).

Cooper Flagg had 23 points and 10 rebounds, Anthony Davis added 15 points and the Dallas Mavericks recovered to beat the Detroit Pistons 116-114 in overtime Thursday night after blowing an 18-point third-quarter lead.

NBA prop bettors, rejoice.  After several days of short NBA slates with very few props to consider, there are 12 games in action on Thursday night as several te

Inspired by classic athlete kudos, the “Jersey Swap” spot features Flagg, the No. 1 pick in this year’s NBA Draft out of Duke, teaming up with Jake from State Farm and a few unlikely teammates like a coach and a hot dog vendor as they swap "jerseys" to highlight all the great assists that make basketball possible.

Flagg claims the top position thanks to his across-the-board production and massive role in Dallas. The Mavericks have fast-tracked Flagg into the centerpiece of their offense and defense because the vets are either injured or underwhelming.

Lately, Cooper Flagg has gone above and beyond the call of duty. The rookie sensation for the Dallas Mavericks has been entrusted with the of starting point guard role. With that will come a certain amount of criticism as to whether the No.1 pick coming off one year at Duke has what it takes.