Cooper Flagg Shatters LeBron James Teenage Record, Mavericks Lose

Cooper Flagg exploded for 42 points Monday, the most ever by an 18 year old in an NBA game, topping LeBron James 2003 mark of 37, yet the Mavericks fell 140 133 in overtime to Utah. Flagg called the night bittersweet, saying "Obviously, we didn't win. So, it's tough for me to want to be happy or any of that. But obviously, it's a success." He has scored 20 or more in five of seven games and is averaging 18.4 points, 6.3 rebounds and 3.5 assists for the season, putting him in Rookie of the Year conversation. Merlin sees a rare talent settling into the league with the calm of a veteran and the flash of a rising star. The numbers nod to historic peers like Kevin Durant and James, yet Dallas remains 10th in the West at 10 17 and short on health. If the roster ever aligns, Flagg could carry a contender, but for now he is the bright lantern in a foggy caravan.