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Kevin Durant has seen the NBA’s next generation up close for nearly two decades, but few players have impressed him the way Cooper Flagg has. After the Houston Rockets’ 110–102 win over the Dallas Mavericks, the 15-time All-Star and two-time NBA champion offered high praise for the Mavericks’ 18-year-old forward — and a prediction that turned heads. “I think that he’s going to be a hell of a player,” Durant told DallasHoopsJournal.com. “I think that he’s going to be such a nightmare… that… he’ll be considered one of the best of all time.” Durant’s comments came as Flagg continues adjusting to the NBA’s speed and physicality early in his rookie campaign. While the Mavericks dropped to Houston, Flagg’s activity on both ends again showed why Dallas made him the top overall pick in the 2025 NBA Draft. He finished with 12 points, five rebounds, and two assists. HOUSTON, TEXAS – NOVEMBER 03: Kevin Durant #7 of the Houston Rockets drives down court against the Dallas Mavericks during the second half at Toyota Center on November 03, 2025 in Houston, Texas. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Alex Slitz/Getty Images) For Durant, who entered the league as a wiry 18-year-old after a single season at Texas, Flagg’s learning curve felt familiar. “I think that you’re going from in college playing four and five to playing point guard, two guard,” Durant told DallasHoopsJournal.com. “That’s going to be an adjustment period for everybody.” Read more: Mavericks Trade Idea Brings in Point Guard and 1st-Round Pick for Fan Favorite The veteran forward related the transition to his own early years, when the Seattle SuperSonics (now Oklahoma City Thunder) moved him from a frontcourt scorer to a perimeter creator. “I hate to inject myself into his [situation],” Durant said. “But I came in college playing four, five. I came to the league playing a two. So it’s like position changes like that can really throw you off early on in your career, but I think he’s still working through it and having some good games, you know?” He later added that the process takes time — but the results, for players who adapt, are worth the wait. “It’s only a matter of time before he gets it and clicks for him,” Durant told DallasHoopsJournal.com. “He understands truly what his role is — I think the sky’s the limit for him.” Flagg, the 6-foot-9 forward from Maine, has shown a balanced offensive approach through seven games, averaging 13.6 points, 6.3 rebounds, and 2.9 assists while handling increased ball-handling responsibilities under head coach Jason Kidd. The Mavericks have encouraged him to develop perimeter creation and playmaking instincts rather than stay anchored in the paint. Read more: Rockets Make Major Decision on Contracts of Recent Lottery Picks Durant’s endorsement adds credibility to the Mavericks’ approach — and to Flagg’s poise through early challenges. For Durant, who transformed from a college post scorer into one of the game’s most complete offensive players, the lesson is clear: growth comes from discomfort. “Position changes like that can really throw you off early in your career,” he said. “But he’s still working through it and having some good games.” If his forecast proves right, the Mavericks may have found not just their next franchise cornerstone, but the kind of talent even Kevin Durant believes could define an era. For all the latest NBA news and rumors, head over to Newsweek Sports.
