Overview

• Nowitzki said the rookie’s “hype is real” and called Flagg “the real deal,” praising his feel, athleticism and work ethic.
• The Mavericks’ legend begins a studio analyst role with Amazon this fall, adding visibility to his public support of Flagg.
• Flagg’s trainer reported a heavy offseason emphasis on strength and sports performance to handle an NBA schedule and reduce injury risk.
• With Kyrie Irving rehabbing a torn ACL, Jason Kidd has floated backcourt and primary ballhandling looks for Flagg entering preseason.
• Klay Thompson organized a Newport Beach bonding camp as Dallas targets early chemistry, with Anthony Davis still recovering from eye surgery and analysts framing the team’s outlook around health and Flagg’s immediate impact.