Cooper Flagg drops 13 points in final preseason win over Lakers as Luka Dončić, LeBron James and Bronny James all sit out

In a surprising move, Dallas Mavericks head coach Jason Kidd has started rookie Cooper Flagg at point guard during the preseason, alongside a star-studded lineup that includes Klay Thompson and Anthony Davis. This decision has sparked discussions about the team's strategy and Flagg's potential impact as they prepare for the upcoming season. While the Mavericks secured a solid win against the Lakers, the uncertainty surrounding Flagg's role raises questions about the team's dynamics and future performance.

In a recent preseason game, the Dallas Mavericks triumphed over the Los Angeles Lakers with a score of 121-94, showcasing rookie Cooper Flagg's potential as he scored 13 points along with three assists and two rebounds. Following the game, Lakers head coach JJ Redick addressed the comparisons being drawn between Flagg and former NBA star Grant Hill, indicating that while such comparisons are common, each player has their unique journey. This discussion highlights the excitement surrounding Flagg's early career and the expectations placed on young talent in the league.

In the latest NBA Starting Lineup Power Rankings, the focus shifts to the crucial No. 4 options on each team, highlighting how these players contribute to overall team chemistry and success. While star players often steal the spotlight, this analysis emphasizes the importance of every role in building a competitive squad. Understanding the dynamics of these key players can provide fans with deeper insights into team performance and strategy, making it a significant discussion point for basketball enthusiasts.

In a lighthearted moment following the Los Angeles Lakers' 126-116 victory over the Golden State Warriors in the NBA Preseason, Austin Reaves stole the show by humorously recreating a famous LeBron James meme from the NBA Bubble. This playful act quickly went viral on social media, bringing joy and laughter to fans. It highlights the fun side of sports and how players can connect with their audience beyond the game.

LeBron James is aiming for a mid-November return to the court after missing the Lakers' season opener due to sciatica. This injury, which he sustained during a workout in late July, has raised concerns among fans and analysts alike. His return is crucial for the Lakers as they look to build momentum in the early part of the season.

Dalton Knecht, a former standout for the Vols, made his debut as a starter for the Lakers in a game against Dallas held in Las Vegas. This is an exciting moment for Knecht, showcasing his transition to the professional level and highlighting his potential in the NBA. Fans are eager to see how he performs and what this means for his future with the team.

The Dallas Mavericks are seeing a remarkable transformation with Cooper Flagg joining the team, as noted by coach Jason Kidd. Flagg's unique skills and potential are already making waves, suggesting he could be a game-changer for the roster. This is significant not just for the Mavericks but for the entire league, as young talents like Flagg can redefine team dynamics and performance.

The Lakers are facing a challenging start to the NBA season as reports suggest that LeBron James may be sidelined for an extended period. This news is significant for both the team and its fans, as James is a key player whose absence could impact the team's performance and morale. Fans will need to adjust to the possibility of watching their team compete without one of the league's biggest stars.

In a recent preseason game against the Mavericks, the Lakers showcased some impressive talent despite being short-handed. Three players stood out, demonstrating their skills and potential for the upcoming season. This is significant as it highlights the depth of the Lakers' roster and gives fans hope for a strong performance in the regular season.

In a preseason matchup against the Dallas Mavericks, Gabe Vincent showcased his shooting skills with impressive three-pointers, energizing the crowd early on. However, the Los Angeles Lakers struggled in the fourth quarter, ultimately leading to a disappointing loss. This game highlights both Vincent's potential as a key player and the challenges the Lakers may face as they prepare for the upcoming season.

In a recent preseason game, Gabe Vincent showcased his impressive shooting skills, hitting several long-distance shots that energized the crowd. However, despite his efforts, the Lakers struggled in the fourth quarter and ultimately lost to the Dallas Mavericks. This game highlights the challenges the Lakers face as they prepare for the upcoming season, raising questions about their consistency and ability to close out games.

In an exciting preseason matchup, the Dallas Mavericks faced off against the Los Angeles Lakers, showcasing their promising rookie, Cooper Flagg. The 18-year-old made headlines with a stunning play that left the Lakers' defense in the dust, leading to a spectacular dunk. This performance not only highlights Flagg's potential but also signals a bright future for the Mavericks as they aim for success in the upcoming season.

Bruce Pearl, the former Auburn basketball coach, is making waves by joining CBS and TNT Sports as an analyst. This move is exciting for fans and viewers, as Pearl brings a wealth of experience and insight from his coaching career. His transition from the sidelines to the broadcast booth means audiences can expect in-depth analysis and a unique perspective on college basketball, enhancing the viewing experience during games and discussions. It's a significant step for Pearl, who continues to influence the sport even after retirement.

The Tampa Bay Buccaneers are gearing up to face the Detroit Lions on Monday Night Football, entering the game as 4.5-point underdogs. However, with quarterback Baker Mayfield leading the charge and the team boasting a strong 5-1 record, they have the potential to pull off an upset. This matchup is significant as it could impact the NFC standings, showcasing the Buccaneers' resilience and offensive capabilities.

Seth Rollins' recent shoulder injury raises concerns about his participation in WrestleMania 42, scheduled for April 2026. According to Dave Meltzer from Wrestling Observer Radio, the injury could be serious enough to sideline the WWE Superstar from this major event. This news is significant for fans and the wrestling community, as Rollins is a key figure in WWE and his absence could impact the event's excitement and storyline developments.

Klay Thompson of the Dallas Mavericks provided a hilarious moment before their preseason game against the Los Angeles Lakers by trying out smelling salts. His priceless reaction has added to his reputation for being entertaining both on and off the court. This light-hearted incident not only showcases Thompson's personality but also highlights the fun side of preseason games, making fans excited for the upcoming season.

The New York Knicks are gearing up for the 2025-26 season with optimism as they believe the path to the Finals is clearer than ever. With a new coach at the helm, the team is focused on addressing their critical weaknesses and enhancing their overall performance. Fans are eager to see if the changes will lead to a successful season, making this an exciting time for the franchise and its supporters.

Fantasy basketball is heating up as analyst Dan Titus highlights five guards poised for breakout performances in Yahoo's new format. This is exciting news for fans and players alike, as these emerging talents could significantly impact your fantasy team. With the season underway, keeping an eye on these players could give you the edge you need to dominate your league.