Kendrick Perkins Makes Bold Comparison Between Rookie and Legend
Kendrick Perkins never holds back his opinions. The former NBA player hosts a popular podcast with Richard Jefferson and Channing Frye. In a recent episode, Perkins grabbed everyone's attention with a surprising compliment. He directed this praise toward Dallas Mavericks rookie Cooper Flagg.
Cooper Flagg has been making waves in the NBA Rookie of the Year race since his very first game. Perkins compared the young athlete to a true league legend. That legend is Los Angeles Lakers superstar LeBron James.
'White Version of LeBron James' Statement Stuns Listeners
Perkins did not mince words. He tagged Flagg as the "white version of LeBron James." This declaration stunned the other podcast members. It is a huge comparison to make. LeBron James is in his 23rd professional season. Cooper Flagg has just started his career.
"Keep the main thing to the main thing," Perkins stated firmly. "The main thing is Cooper Flagg. You know what I am saying. That's the main thing. The white version of LeBron James, minus the athleticism."
Perkins seemed completely convinced by his own statement. His co-hosts, however, did not agree. Richard Jefferson and Channing Frye immediately pushed back.
Podcast Co-Hosts Push Back Against the Comparison
Richard Jefferson called the comparison "a reach right there." When Perkins asked for an explanation, Jefferson offered a different view. He suggested Flagg was more like "James Harden minus the crossover."
Perkins defended his original point by praising Cooper Flagg's all-around game. "I think he is leading the team in every category," Perkins argued. "There is nothing this man does not do for his ball court."
The debate continued. Jefferson believed Dallas star Luka Doncic was a more fitting comparison to LeBron James. Perkins countered this by highlighting Flagg's defensive effort. He pointed out that the Slovenian player does not play defense, but Cooper Flagg certainly does.
Cooper Flagg's Stellar Rookie Season Performance
Why would Perkins make such a bold claim? Cooper Flagg's performance provides some answers. The Dallas Mavericks rookie is having a spectacular debut season. He recently broke a decade-old record held by LeBron James himself.
Flagg dropped a career-high 42 points in a game. This made him the only 18-year-old in NBA history to score a 40-point game. He shattered the previous record held by the Lakers veteran. This incredible feat gives critics and fans a reason to draw comparisons.
The rookie's current statistics are impressive. Cooper Flagg is averaging 19.1 points per game. He also contributes 6.4 rebounds and 4.3 assists. These numbers show a versatile and impactful player on the court.
Kendrick Perkins's comments have ignited a fresh debate in the basketball world. Is it too early to compare a rookie to a legend like LeBron James? Or is Cooper Flagg truly showing that kind of generational talent? Only time will tell, but the conversation is certainly heating up.
