The No. 1 overall pick in any NBA Draft is closely watched during their rookie season, often with unfair expectations. People pay close attention to see how they adapt and, more so, struggle as they move to the next level.

This can also place immense stress on the head coach. If a highly talented player does not translate to the NBA, the coach is often the first to go.

For Cooper Flagg and head coach Jason Kidd, this is no exception, but it has certainly been amplified when you add in how Flagg ended up with the Dallas Mavericks. 

Flagg’s potential is extremely high; he might become one of the best two-way prospects seen come from college basketball. Unfortunately for him, he will always be compared to Luka Dončić, one of the best basketball players in the world. 

A day before the anniversary of the controversial Dončić trade, Kidd lashed out during a press conference. The Sporting News covers everything about Kidd’s response to media criticism of Flagg.

What did Jason Kidd say to Cooper Flagg critics?

Kidd delivered a passionate, profanity-laced speech to the media, strongly defending his decision to play Flagg at point guard.

“Criticism? That’s your opinion. You guys write that bulls–t. I’ve done this. I’ve played this game. I played it. I know what the f–k I’m doing…”

(via @GrantAfseth) https://t.co/nFKgfERNRb pic.twitter.com/x2FNYD3yMV

— Bleacher Report (@BleacherReport) February 1, 2026

Kidd rejected the national criticism of Flagg’s role, citing his own legendary career as a point guard to support his authority.

Kidd also expressed frustration with the officiating after the 111-107 defeat at the hands of the Houston Rockets.

MORE: Mavericks rookie Cooper Flagg unlocks an unmatched NBA feat

Why is Cooper Flagg playing point guard?

At the beginning of the 2025–26 season, Kidd decided to start Flagg — who is naturally a forward — at point guard. This change initially resulted in a 2-5 record and gave the team the league’s lowest offensive rating.

When asked about the matter, Kidd identified three primary reasons for assigning the 6-foo-9 forward to a ball-handling role.

With Kyrie Irving out with a torn ACL, the Mavericks lacked playmaking depth. Kidd aimed to make Flagg uncomfortable early, giving him full-court pressure and decision-making to prepare for playoff pressure in April.

Kidd views Flagg’s role as a point guard as a great way to help him reach his potential. This approach allows Flagg to keep honing his skills, giving him the chance to take advantage of mismatches against traditional forwards who might not be used to guarding lead ball-handlers.

Cooper Flagg recent stats1/29 vs. Charlotte Hornets (L, 123-121)MinPTSFG3PTFTREBAST384920-29 (69%)3-5 (60%)6-6 (100%)1031/31 at Houston Rockets (L, 111-107)MinPTSFG3PTFTREBAST393413-25 (52%)1-4 (25%)7-10 (70%)125Will Cooper Flagg be an All-Star?

It is not likely that Flagg will be an All-Star this season. However, it does not mean he’s had a bad rookie campaign.

The last rookie to make the All-Star Game was Blake Griffin in 2011. Despite this, Flagg will still be a part of the All-Star weekend festivities.

Flagg was selected as the top overall pick in the Rising Stars draft by the honorary coach, Carmelo Anthony. He is designated to captain Team Melo in a four-team mini-tournament scheduled for Friday, February 13, at the Intuit Dome in Los Angeles.