Jason Kidd ’s postgame comments after Monday’s loss to the Houston Rockets offered a revealing look into both the Dallas Mavericks ’ early-season struggles and their long-term plans centered around rookie Cooper Flagg .

Kidd said Flagg played through shoulder soreness sustained after a second-quarter collision and praised the No. 1 overall pick for showing toughness. Flagg finished with just two points on 1-of-9 shooting, but Kidd explained that the forward’s limited second-half usage, including only four shots, was by design, as P.J. Washington had a strong offensive night.

“He’s a tough kid,” Kidd said. “He’s fighting through a shoulder injury. But when he comes out, he's ready to play. It just shows his toughness.”

The Mavericks have leaned heavily on Flagg in the opening

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