Cooper Flagg Leads Mavericks in Macao as Kyrie Irving Returns to Action

Cooper Flagg’s transition from elite prospect to NBA superstar is no longer just a projection. Following a dominant showing at the 2026 NBA China Games in Macao, analyst Brian Windhorst noted that the Dallas Mavericks forward’s trajectory toward the league’s top tier is beginning to feel “inevitable.”

The sentiment follows a two-game series against the Houston Rockets where Flagg, the reigning NBA Rookie of the Year, displayed a significant jump in playmaking and poise. Flagg totaled 33 points, 10 rebounds, and 10 assists across the series. In the final matchup at The Venetian Arena on October 11, the Mavericks secured a 132-115 victory, punctuated by Flagg’s 19-point performance in the opener and a seven-assist display in the finale.

A major catalyst for the Mavericks’ optimistic outlook is the successful return of Kyrie Irving. On October 11, Irving returned to game action for the first time in 586 days after recovering from a torn ACL. Irving’s presence provided an immediate secondary scoring threat, which Windhorst noted has allowed Flagg to operate with more freedom than during his high-usage rookie campaign.

Building on a Historic Rookie Season

Flagg entered the 2026-27 preseason with high expectations after a stellar 2025-26 debut. As the first overall pick in 2025, he lived up to the billing by averaging 21.0 points, 6.7 rebounds, and 4.5 assists per game. This statistical profile put him in elite company, and Windhorst’s recent analysis suggests Flagg is poised for a second-year leap comparable to those made by the league’s all-time greats.

The Mavericks have undergone a significant structural overhaul to support this window of contention. The franchise is now led by President Masai Ujiri and head coach Dusty May, who have emphasized a more fluid, transition-heavy offense. This system appeared to suit Flagg perfectly in Macao, where he often led the break after securing defensive rebounds.

Analysis of the Macao series suggests Flagg has addressed the primary critique from his rookie year: shooting consistency. His perimeter shot appeared more compact during the China Games, complementing his established ability to finish at the rim and facilitate for teammates. If these improvements hold through the regular season, the “inevitable” label may soon shift from his ascension to his status as a perennial All-Star candidate.

The Mavericks conclude their preseason schedule this week as they prepare for a season defined by Flagg’s sophomore development and Irving’s integration back into the starting lineup. For a franchise that transitioned into a new era under Ujiri and May, the performance in China serves as a proof of concept for the roster’s high ceiling.

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