Charles Barkley Slams Mavericks: Cooper Flagg'S Nba Debut Wasn'T Handled Right

Charles Barkley Takes on the Mavericks

NBA legend Charles Barkley has never been one to hold his tongue, and he didn't start now in response to the Dallas Mavericks' handling of their No. 1 draft pick, Cooper Flagg. As the rookie made his debut against the San Antonio Spurs, Barkley was quick to critique Dallas's decision to play Flagg at point guard, a role he deemed ill-suited for the young phenom.

"The Dallas Mavericks are trying to out-think everybody," Barkley declared on the freshly debuted ESPN edition of Inside the NBA. "It's just basketball," he continued, criticizing the Mavericks for starting Flagg in a position that prevents him from showcasing his natural scoring talents. Barkley, never one to mince words, believes the Mavericks were "trying to reinvent the wheel" with their strategy.

Flagg's Struggling Debut

Flagg's first NBA game against the Spurs was a rocky one. The rookie went scoreless in the first half, eventually finishing the game with just 10 points on 4-of-13 shooting. Though he managed to snatch 10 rebounds, it was clear the nerves of a debut weighed heavily on him. His team, the Mavericks, suffered a crushing 125-92 defeat, spurred on by the impressive play of Victor Wembanyama.

"Not great," Flagg admitted when reflecting on his debut performance. "Obviously, didn't play incredibly well, but we've got to move past it, turn our focus, and start looking toward Friday."

Barkley's Advice for the Future

Barkley was adamant about a change in strategy. He urged the Mavericks to place Flagg in a position that allows him to score rather than facilitate. "He's not a point guard," Barkley insisted, pointing out the rookie's lack of experience in that role. "He's a terrific passer, a hell of a basketball player. Other than Anthony Davis, he's passing the ball to dudes who ain't as good as him."

Barkley's forthright commentary served as a reminder of why Inside the NBA remains compelling even after its move to ESPN from TNT. As Flagg regroups, the Mavericks will look to bounce back against the Washington Wizards. In the meantime, Barkley's words echoed as both critique and challenge to the Dallas camp.

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