Cooper Flagg assumes a secondary role when Jason Kidd starts giving Anthony Davis the Dallas Mavericks’ control

The Dallas Mavericks are starting to make some changes inside the team, and head coach Jason Kidd is part of the reason. Following Anthony Davis’ impressive preseason, Kidd has opted to feed more of the offense through the veteran center, creating a dynamic shift that’s putting rookie Cooper Flagg in a secondary role.

Following the team’s win over the Utah Jazz, Kidd praised Davis’s efficiency and hinted that his minutes and his influence are set to increase.

We’ll ramp up his minutes again on Thursday, but if he’s going to play like he did tonight, that puts us in a good seat to win a lot of games

Jason Kidd

For a Mavericks roster that has been trying out new lineups throughout the preseason, Kidd’s words made one thing clear: Davis will be the anchor of the team.

Flagg embraces a learning role

While the adjustment could have disappointed a less seasoned rookie, Flagg simply rolled with it. The 19-year-old forward admitted he is still learning how to play off Davis’s game rather than being the top attacker himself.

I have to find a way to help AD more, play off him a little better. Help him impact the game when he’s posting up or getting his ISOs. I’ve got to find a way to help him a little bit more

Cooper Flagg

It was a mature moment for the rookie, as it represents his desire to keep evolving and willingness to adapt to the demands of the NBA and to his team’s shifting priorities.

A mix of youth and experience

For Kidd, he is going through a tiny rope. Davis, who has had many battles against his injuries during his entire career, is still getting in shape. At full health, however, he is one of the league’s top two-way contributors. Letting him run the offense, will allow the Mavericks to set an experienced pace and leave Flagg to ease into the physical and mental grind of the season.

This was one of his best games. If he keeps that up, we’re going to be in a great position

Jason Kidd

The pairing of Davis and Flagg gives Dallas a blend of experience and youthful energy, but it also means Flagg will need to pick his preferred spots rather than dominate all possessions.

The switch is a nod to Dallas’ dedicationon form and viability. With Davis as the offense leader at the front, the team has a proven leader at all times, and Flagg can be the complementary star piece the team desires to breed.