Cooper Flagg's latest development is what will turn him into a true superstar

Cooper Flagg was the No. 1 pick in the 2025 NBA Draft because he can do everything on a basketball court, and do it all pretty dang well. Playmaking was a huge part of Flagg's allure; he averaged 4.2 assists per game in college, which was No. 8 in the ACC, along with leading the league in scoring as a freshman. "Generational" was never an overstatement.

His vision and willingness to facilitate (especially from the wing or forward position) is such a plus skill to have. Strangely, Flagg's assist numbers have gone up since he moved from point guard to his natural forward position. In December, Flagg is averaging 4.5 assists per game, up from 3.7 in November and 2.8 in October. At this pace, he'll be averaging like 63 assists per game by next winter.

This steady climb is extremely encouraging — and it could accelerate his development into hyper speed. If it's not there already. Double hyperspeed. Ultra hyperspeed.

Flagg's passing ability is starting to shine and it will unlock everything

Cooper Flagg's ability to create a basket for himself is why he's so highly regarded as a prospect. So far, we've seen that scoring creation; only 38 percent of his two-point baskets have been assisted this year, and under 80 percent of his 3-pointers.

His vision, though, is how he separated himself from other impressive scorers in the draft like Ace Bailey. It's what raises his ceiling from a potentially great player to potential future megastar.

There are extremely good NBA players who are still trying to become high-level facilitators, years into their careers. To see Flagg progressing this rapidly as a passer is scary for the rest of the league.

Everyone knew Cooper Flagg had superstar potential. Nothing we've seen in the first two months of his career should dissuade fans from that belief. The playmaking he's shown recently will allow him to reach that distinction even faster than fans expected. Passing is often the toughest skill for young players to figure out, and Flagg's production is already catching up to his talent in that regard. Get excited.