Scouting Cooper Flagg: Who Does the Projected No. 1 Pick Compare To?

As Duke's Cooper Flagg leads his team into the Final Four, NBA scouts and executives are already drawing comparisons between the projected No. 1 overall pick and some of the league's most iconic players. Here's a deep dive into who Flagg resembles at this stage of his career:

Ceiling Comparison: Kawhi Leonard

• Defensive Impact: Like Leonard, Flagg has elite defensive instincts with the size (6'9") and IQ to disrupt offenses immediately.
• Offensive Development Path: Both players started as defensive specialists with offensive games that developed over time. Flagg's mid-range scoring and downhill attacking style mirror Leonard's early career.
• Stats: Through 36 games, Flagg is averaging 25.3 pts, 10.1 reb, 5.6 ast per 40 (pace adjusted) with a 60% TS%, outpacing Leonard’s college numbers.

Floor Comparison: Lamar Odom

• Versatility: Even in a worst-case scenario, Flagg’s playmaking and defensive versatility make him a high-impact player, similar to Odom’s role on the Lakers’ title teams.
• Ball Skills: At 6'10", Flagg handles the ball like a guard—a trait Odom was known for.
• Stats: Flagg's production (5.6 assists, 1.9 blocks per 40) already surpasses Odom’s college output.

In-His-Prime Comparison: Jayson Tatum

• Scoring & Playmaking: Both were mechanical shooters early but evolved into all-around threats. Flagg’s assist numbers (5.6 per 40) blow away Tatum’s college stats.
• Defensive Edge: Flagg is further ahead defensively than Tatum was at Duke.

Second-Star Comparison: Scottie Pippen

• Elite Complementary Skills: If Flagg isn’t a No. 1 scorer, he could still dominate as a playmaking forward like Pippen, benefiting from a lead scorer alongside him.
• Rebounding & Defense: Both fill stat sheets with rebounds, steals, and blocks.

Wildcard Comparison: Andrei Kirilenko

• Defensive Playmaking: Kirilenko led the NBA in blocks as a wing—Flagg may not reach that peak but could be a disruptive force.
• Offensive Upside: Flagg is already far ahead of Kirilenko as a scorer and passer.

Final Takeaway

Flagg’s two-way upside makes him a rare prospect. His floor is Lamar Odom, his ceiling is Kawhi Leonard, and his most realistic outcome may be a mix of Tatum and Pippen—a high-IQ forward who impacts winning in every facet. One thing is certain: whichever team drafts him is getting a franchise-altering talent.

(Data via ESPN Stats & Info)