Cooper Flagg Gets Reality Check From 66-Year-Old Ex-NBA Star After Struggling to Lead Anthony Davis-Less Mavericks 

No. 1 pick Cooper Flagg got a reality check from 66-year-old former NBA player Eddie A Johnson, who now works as a Suns announcer. Johnson was unimpressed with Flagg's approach in the Mavericks' 110-102 loss to the Rockets on Monday in Anthony Davis' absence.

Flagg attempted only 10 shots, including five from 3, scoring 12 points, five rebounds and two assists in 33 minutes. He was scoreless in the second half after going 5-for-6 in the first.

After the game, Johnson called him out on X, saying:

"Cooper Flagg looks passive and hesitant, you play 33 minutes without AD. If you want it you have to show teammates you do. They will not wait for you. Welcome to the NBA!"

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Flagg has yet to have a breakout game. Many Mavericks fans presumed it was due to Davis leading the offense as the focal point. However, Davis has been out for two games. Ideally, it should increase Flagg's opportunities, but the rookie hasn't used this window.

On Saturday, against the Pistons, Flagg scored 16 points, eight rebounds and four assists, but shot 3 of 14. Nevertheless, he was aggressive and got to the line eight times.

Without Davis, Flagg must lean more into his offensive ceiling, as it could be key to the Mavericks' success. It's what Johnson's hinting at, especially with the minutes Flagg has earned.

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Mavericks coach Jason Kidd on why Cooper Flagg was passive in the second half vs. Rockets

Dallas Mavericks coach Jason Kidd acknowledged Cooper Flagg's passiveness in the second half against the Rockets on Monday. However, he didn't share the same concern as Eddie A Johnson. Kidd instead lauded Flagg for making the right plays down the stretch.

Here's what the former NBA star said on his rookie's second half performance (via Mavericks' beat writer Mike Curtis):

"For Cooper, I think the ball was finding PJ & he took full advantage of the situation. I thought Cooper played a great game on both ends. ... Down the stretch, he made the right plays. Unfortunately PJ's going & D-Lo has the ball. You trust that he's going to make the right plays."

The offense flowed through P.J. Washington in Monday's game. The veteran forward was the most productive player offensively. He finished with 29 points and 12 rebounds, shooting 55.0%.

Meanwhile, the Mavericks trusted D'Angelo Russell with playmaking duties over Cooper Flagg. The former All-Star guard had 10 points and 12 assists.

Those circumstances didn't allow Flagg to take over the offense for this particular game.

Edited by Arhaan Raje