Dallas Mavericks head coach Jason Kidd highlighted rookie Cooper Flagg’s performance after the team defeated the Toronto Raptors 139–129 on Sunday at the American Airlines Center.
Flagg scored 22 points, including a one-handed dunk during a 13–0 third-quarter run, and helped the Mavericks maintain a lead in the fourth. Kidd emphasized the rookie’s defense as the spark for his offensive success.
“His ability to understand the defense, who’s guarding him, and what he can get to… his IQ is extremely high,” Kidd said. “Being able to shoot the three off the dribble and get into the paint, then playmake in that two-to-three-minute stretch is really good for us.”
D’Angelo Russell added 24 points and six assists off the bench, contributing on both ends of the floor. Kidd noted that having Russell on the court more than in the previous game allowed the Mavericks to sustain offensive efficiency.
“I think at his best, he can play, make, score, and find guys,” Kidd said. “He did a great job not just offensively but defensively as well.”
Anthony Davis led Dallas with 25 points and 10 rebounds, while P.J. Washington added 17 points, seven rebounds, and five assists. Kidd praised the team’s bench production, noting over 60 points came from reserve players.
“Score 139 is a great way to respond after the last game,” Kidd said. “The group is trending in the right direction. Playing for one another defensively and offensively was at a high level.”
The coach also stressed the importance of taking care of the basketball, highlighting a first-half of 12 turnovers that dropped to just one in the third quarter. “You have to be honest with them. We’re just making careless mistakes,” Kidd said. “Slowing down and talking helped connect the dots.”
Kidd noted that the team’s pace and transition game were crucial. “Defense, rebounding, and pushing the pace allowed us to execute under pressure,” he said, referencing the Raptors’ full-court pressure.
Max Christie contributed 17 points, with Kidd applauding his ability to read closeouts and make plays for teammates. “He’s in that box with PJ and Cooper, being able to score and help us on both ends,” Kidd said.
The Mavericks now turn their attention to finishing a back-to-back against the defending champion Oklahoma City Thunder on Monday, while Toronto heads to San Antonio.
