The Mavericks utilized him as such in preseason, and to begin the regular season, they are doing the same. However, things have not gone as well as they expected, and it has led to a three-time NBA champion sending a message to the Mavericks about what they should do with Flagg before it is too late.

The No. 1 overall pick and youngest player in the NBA deserves a little more time to grow before his career is judged harshly.

The Duke alumnus made the free throw after the dunk to register his 19th point of the game, setting a new career-high. It also helped extend a 13-0 scoring run for the Mavericks. Here's how Cooper Flagg did in his third game of the season:

The Dallas Mavericks got some concerning news regarding their No. 1 overall draft pick Cooper Flagg on Monday night.

The Dallas Mavericks picked up their first win of the Cooper Flagg era on Sunday night, as they beat the Toronto Raptors 139-129. The offense finally showed life, as D'Angelo Russell received real playing time to push Cooper Flagg off of his primary playmaking duties. And, in return, Cooper Flagg had his best game of the season.

How many points, rebounds and assists will Cooper Flagg finish with on Wednesday vs. Indiana? We share the best recommended wagers for his fifth NBA game.

Dallas Mavericks No. 1 overall rookie Cooper Flagg was benched for most of the fourth quarter after hurting his shoulder early against the Thunder.

Cooper Flagg scored 22 points and had a soaring one-handed dunk during the decisive run, helping the Dallas Mavericks beat the Toronto Raptors 139-129 for their first victory with the No. 1 overall pick.

Dallas Mavericks fans have made a fast tradition of singing Cooper Flagg's name during the national anthem at home games.

Mavericks' Jason Kidd sent warning over Cooper Flagg experiment, risking stunted development originally appeared on The Sporting News. Add The Sporting News as a Preferred Source by clicking here.