Cooper Flagg is already chasing a legendary Luka Doncic feat no one expected

Cooper Flagg coming to the Dallas Mavericks almost completely rectifies the Luka Doncic trade, as Flagg has proven to have just as much potential as Doncic in terms of being a top player in the league, and there's a good chance he could accomplish the same feat Doncic did in his second season, that being earning All-NBA team honors.

Of course, this wasn't Nico Harrison's doing, as Dallas completely lucked into being able to select Flagg No. 1 overall last June, but Flagg has already cemented himself as a potential Rookie of the Year award winner just like Doncic did in his first season, and the leap in year two could be similar as well. Flagg and Doncic obviously have wildly different playstyles, but Flagg's overall impact on the game is just as prolific as Doncic's rookie year was in Dallas.

Doncic averaged 21.2 points, 7.8 rebounds, 6.0 assists, and 1.2 steals per game with shooting splits of 42.7/32.7/71.3 in his rookie season. Meanwhile, Flagg has averaged 21.0 points, 6.7 rebounds, 4.6 assists, 1.2 steals, and 0.9 blocks per game with shooting splits of 46.7/29.2/82.4 this season.

Flagg has potential to get All-NBA in 2nd year just like Doncic did

Flagg wasn't lauded to be nearly as elite an offensive prospect as Doncic coming into the NBA, so taking into consideration how close their counting stats from their rookie seasons are is a huge credit to Flagg, as there's no doubt he's already a better defensive player than Doncic ever has been.

It's going to be extremely hard for Flagg to ascend in the same way Doncic did as a three-level scorer and playmaker from his first to second season, but in terms of his overall impact on the game, Flagg definitely could make the same type of leap. Flagg already holds the record for most points scored in a single game by a rookie in Mavericks franchise history with 51, as he's a relentless bucket-getter whose jumper is only going to improve with time under his belt.

Flagg's trajectory already mirrors many of the best to ever do it

Flagg is one of the best athletes in a league full of great athletes, and his work ethic and ability to stay in shape aren't things that will be questioned. Doncic is an other-worldly offensive talent, but Flagg's overall impact may be able to transcend Doncic's one day, as Flagg has tidbits of Giannis Antetokounmpo, Kawhi Leonard, and even a little Kevin Durant in his game.

As aforementioned, the Mavericks are extremely lucky to have drawn back-to-back franchise players, and Flagg is certainly good enough to join Doncic as the eighth player to earn All-NBA honors in his second season in the modern era. Flagg may need some luck for this to come into fruition, with as talented the league is today, but the 19-year-old has proven he's certainly talented and works hard enough to have a crack at the same feat Doncic once accomplished in Dallas.