It was a story of two video games for VJ Edgecombe and Cooper Flagg, as they kicked off their respective NBA careers.
VJ Edgecombe and Cooper Flagg each made their official NBA debuts tonight, and to say they made their presences identified can be an understatement.
Cooper Flagg was the undisputed #1 total decide for the Dallas Mavericks within the 2025 NBA Draft, whereas VJ Edgecombe went #3 to the Philadelphia 76ers, courtesy of poor draft technique from Ace Bailey.
However the 76ers can be counting their fortunate stars that they picked Edgecombe, as he was completely sensible for them of their opening fixture.
Whereas Cooper Flagg did properly in opposition to the Spurs, his efficiency was a reminder that he isn’t a lock to win the Rookie of the Yr award.
In his rookie debut, VJ Edgecombe was phenomenal, scoring 34 factors, with 7 rebounds, and three assists whereas making 5 three-pointers.
His efficiency will go down within the historical past books, as it’s the third-highest factors scored by a rookie of their debut, behind Wilt Chamberlain and Frank Selvy.
On prime of that, he set the document for many factors by a rookie within the first quarter of their debut since LeBron James in 2003.
Taking place south, Cooper Flagg made his debut with the Dallas Mavericks. And whereas he did flip his efficiency round within the second half, it was an evening of struggles.
Flagg went scoreless within the first half and completed the sport with 10 factors, 10 rebounds, and a steal. Now, Flagg had his work minimize out for him taking part in in opposition to Victor Wembanyama, however there was extra to it than that.
The Mavericks are taking part in him at level guard, as Jason Kidd loves Cooper Flagg’s ball-handling abilities. And whereas he could also be very gifted, Flagg isn’t a pure level guard in any respect.
If Flagg finally ends up taking part in the purpose until Kyrie Irving’s return, his possibilities of profitable Rookie of the Yr are in danger.
VJ Edgecombe had a superb efficiency in his opening evening outing, and reminded everybody that the Rookie of the Yr race isn’t a foregone conclusion.
Whereas Carmelo Anthony doubts Edgecombe can win Rookie of the Yr, it’s laborious to have a look at his efficiency and doubt him.
In fact, it’s simply Recreation 1, and there’s a lot extra basketball to be performed. However the opening week of the NBA ought to function a reminder to followers to not depend out some other rookie.
Control the Rookie of the Yr race, as it’s positive to be an thrilling one, as there are a number of thrilling rookies within the league this season.
