Cooper Flagg Makes History in Mavericks Christmas Day Loss to Warriors

Rookie sensation Cooper Flagg delivered a historic performance on Christmas Day. The Dallas Mavericks fell 126-116 to the Golden State Warriors. The loss dropped Dallas to a 12-20 record this season. Flagg was the undeniable bright spot for his struggling team.

The 6-foot-9 forward scored 27 points with six rebounds and five assists. He did this in his first-ever Christmas Day NBA game. According to league statistics, this made him the first rookie since 1970 to post at least 25 points, five rebounds, and five assists on the holiday.

Flagg’s Two-Way Dominance Silences Early Doubts

Flagg’s performance was efficient and comprehensive. He shot 13-for-21 from the field in 36 minutes of play. His game showcased not just athletic slashing but a polished mid-range jumper.

He took over offensively with veteran Anthony Davis sidelined by injury. Flagg exploited Golden State’s interior defense repeatedly. His ability to run the floor and initiate offense was on full display, a skill the Mavericks have nurtured.

This month, Flagg has silenced any early-season concerns. He is averaging 24.4 points, 6.2 rebounds, and 4.6 assists in December. His two-way impact has propelled him to the front of the Rookie of the Year conversation.

Rookie Race Heats Up as Mavericks Face Uncertain Future

The race for top rookie honors is intensely competitive. Flagg’s primary competition is his former Duke teammate, Kon Knueppel of the Charlotte Hornets. Both players are putting up stellar numbers for struggling franchises.

For the season, Flagg now averages 19.5 points, 6.4 rebounds, and 3.8 assists. His shooting is nearing 50% from the field. This consistent rise confirms his status as a cornerstone player.

The Mavericks’ season, however, remains in flux. Trade speculation surrounds veterans like Davis and Kyrie Irving as the deadline approaches. The team’s direction is unclear, but Flagg’s emergence provides a clear path for the future.

Flagg’s historic Christmas Day outing solidified his star potential. The Dallas Mavericks may be searching for answers. But they have found their franchise leader in Cooper Flagg.

Info at your fingertips

How did Cooper Flagg make NBA history on Christmas?

He became the first rookie since 1970 to record at least 25 points, five rebounds, and five assists in a Christmas Day game. He finished with 27 points, six boards, and five assists against the Warriors.

What are Cooper Flagg’s stats for the season?

For the 2025-26 season, Flagg is averaging 19.5 points, 6.4 rebounds, and 3.8 assists per game. His shooting efficiency is high, approaching 50% from the field overall.

Who is Cooper Flagg’s main competition for Rookie of the Year?

His main rival is Kon Knueppel, his former teammate at Duke. Knueppel plays for the Charlotte Hornets and is posting similarly impressive statistics for a team with a poor record.

How have the Dallas Mavericks performed this season?

The team has struggled, holding a 12-20 record. They are currently in the mix for the Play-In Tournament but are trending downward amid injury and trade speculation.

What was notable about Flagg’s game beyond scoring?

Beyond scoring, he demonstrated advanced playmaking and defensive activity. He initiated offense, handled the ball in transition, and recorded a block, showing his all-around growth.