Cooper Flagg becomes Rookie of the Year favourite after historic run
Dallas Mavericks teenager Cooper Flagg has overtaken Charlotte Hornets guard Kon Knueppel as the favourite for the NBA Rookie of the Year award following a historic 96-point weekend.
The 19-year-old phenom delivered a pair of spectacular performances to dramatically shift the betting markets in his favour.
He followed up a record-breaking 51-point display in Friday’s defeat by the Orlando Magic with a 45-point masterclass during Sunday’s 134-128 victory over the Los Angeles Lakers.
That stunning two-game stretch saw his odds jump ahead of former Duke university roommate Knueppel.
Joining elite company
The Mavericks forward is the first rookie to score at least 45 points in consecutive games since Hall of Famer Walt Bellamy achieved the feat in 1962.
Only Wilt Chamberlain has ever matched that remarkable scoring streak during a debut professional campaign.
Furthermore, the Dallas star became the first rookie since Allen Iverson to average at least 45 points, five rebounds and five assists over a two-game span.
“I think it’s definitely some sort of statement,” said Flagg.
“But it just goes back to what I said: I’m confident in myself, and I know what I’m capable of.”
A remarkable rookie race
The Rookie of the Year battle has developed into a captivating two-horse race between the former collegiate team-mates.
While the Dallas prospect leads all rookies with 20.8 points per game, his Charlotte counterpart has already shattered the first-year record with a league-leading 265 made three-pointers.
Despite enduring a difficult season with the struggling 25-53 Mavericks, the teenage sensation continues to excel while drawing the toughest defensive assignments every night.
Mavericks head coach Jason Kidd praised his young star’s ability to constantly deliver under immense national scrutiny.
“I think he’s doing what he’s been doing all season,” Kidd noted.
“Being able to play different positions, being able to be uncomfortable, he’s never complained and has delivered for us.”