Cooper Flagg's glaring question mark threatens to shatter Mavericks' master plan

The Dallas Mavericks got a small glimpse of Cooper Flagg this summer, as he played in two Summer League games. He struggled to find his rhythm in Game 1, but took great strides, looking like the playmaker Dallas hoped for. He excelled in his second game, scoring 31 points against the San Antonio Spurs. Flagg was able to use his size and quickness to attack the rim or make a quick pass to an open teammate. His quick improvement showed he is ready for the NBA.

This is good news for his new teammates like Anthony Davis. Davis will need all the help he can get with Kyrie Irving out. Plus, Davis and Flagg could easily complement each other. Davis can help Flagg improve his game and excel in new areas. However, it'll be up to Flagg to continue to improve his game.

As mentioned, Flagg showed great strides from Game 1 to Game 2. There are parts of his game, though, that need work. Against the Los Angeles Lakers on Thursday, Flagg missed all five of his 3-point attempts and failed to get into a groove. The same trend occurred on Saturday, as Flagg shot 33 percent from long range. This is an issue Dallas must address if it hopes to change their lineup.

Kidd's plan to play Cooper Flagg at shooting guard takes a dark turn

Flagg shot well in his final three collegiate games. He made 60 percent of his 3-pointers during the Sweet 16 game against Arizona, then shot 50 percent from long range the following game. In his final college game, Flagg went 3-4 against Houston and showed signs of being a great long-range shooter.

His 3-point numbers, though, have taken a different turn in the Summer League. It's a struggle Jason Kidd must not take lightly if he hopes to adjust to his new plan. Two months ago, Kidd jumped on a podcast and discussed Flagg playing different positions besides small forward. One idea he alluded to was Flagg playing at the two spot.

Kidd's idea means Dallas would roll out a lineup of Irving, Flagg, P.J. Washington, Davis, and Dereck Lively II. It's a lineup that looks deadly on paper, as Dallas would have a clear height advantage over other teams. Defensively, it could work, as Dallas would be able to protect the paint. One downside would be having Flagg guard the opposing team's best ball handlers.

Yet, if that isn't enough of a reason, Flagg's 3-point struggles might throw a wrench into Kidd's new game plan. If Dallas were to roll out the lineup Kidd discussed, Flagg would need to be effective from long range. They would need a shooter who could knock down threes at a high clip and make things easier for his inside teammates by commanding defenders to close out on him.

Another area Flagg must address is his free-throw shooting. Flagg missed five free throws against the Spurs and his only attempt against the Lakers. So, while he has all the intangibles to make things work at the next level, Flagg's shooting form may need work. He'll need the Mavericks' help in adjusting to becoming a more dominant scorer.

So, while Flagg's shooting must improve, he makes up for it in other ways. He is an effective playmaker who can make things easier for his teammates. For example, Mark Cuban took note of Flagg's skills. He mentioned how Flagg "can make reads," and "get to his spots." Cuban also elaborated on how he can help his teammates with the "right pass."

This is high praise from Cuban as he has seen the likes of great Dallas Mavericks, including Dirk Nowitzki and Luka Doncic. Cuban believes Flagg has the skills to grow as a guard. It's obvious to see why. In Game 1, Flagg set up the perfect assist to Ryan Nembhard, who hit the game winner. Basically, it was Flagg's vision that allowed the team to pull off the win.

So, don't worry, Mavs fans, Flagg is going to be a great asset to a team needing extra playmakers. He has the skills and capability to excel at the next level and make things easier for his teammates. As mentioned, his shooting will need work if he hopes to continue improving.

Flagg is a future star who plays well at the small forward position. He is a great wing who can play well on both ends of the court. So, for now, it's best to play him in a spot he is comfortable in. This means Flagg might not be ready to transition into a shooting guard.

Aside from his shooting, the Mavs have plenty to look forward to with Flagg. Fans will have until the season starts, though, to see more of Flagg, as Dallas shut him down for the summer. Let's hope these next couple of months pass by quickly.