DALLAS (Oct. 13, 2025) –  NBA fans are in for a glimpse of the league’s future on Monday night as two of the most hyped rookies in recent memory, Cooper Flagg and Ace Bailey, go head-to-head for the first time when the Dallas Mavericks visit the Utah Jazz at Delta Center.

While the preseason doesn’t count in the standings, this matchup has the feel of a marquee event — a first look at two young stars whose careers are expected to shape the NBA’s next generation.

Flagg’s Steady Start to His NBA Journey

The No. 1 overall pick, Cooper Flagg, enters Monday night’s game having shown flashes of the talent that made him one of the most decorated high school and college prospects in recent years. Through his first two preseason games, the 19-year-old forward has averaged 10.5 points, 5 rebounds, 3 assists, and 1.5 steals, while shooting over 50% from the field.

Flagg’s efficiency and defensive versatility have impressed the Mavericks’ coaching staff, even if his scoring numbers remain modest. Head coach Jason Kidd has made it clear that the team is focused on Flagg’s overall development, rather than just raw scoring output.

“He’s been everything we hoped for — composed, smart, and unselfish,” Kidd said. “Cooper impacts the game in a lot of ways that don’t always show up on the stat sheet. His defense and energy set a tone for our group.”

Flagg’s two-way impact was particularly evident in Dallas’s preseason opener against Oklahoma City, where he held his own defensively against longer, more experienced wings while contributing 10 points and 6 rebounds. Against Charlotte, he flashed more offensive confidence, hitting a three-pointer, finishing a fast-break dunk, and creating off the dribble.

With Anthony Davis and Klay Thompson easing their way through limited preseason minutes, Flagg has found himself in an expanded role. Monday’s matchup against Bailey, however, represents his biggest test yet.

Bailey’s Hot Start Turning Heads

While Flagg’s debut has been steady, Ace Bailey has taken the preseason by storm. The No. 3 overall pick of the Utah Jazz has averaged 22.5 points, 6.5 rebounds, and 2 assists while shooting an incredible 65.5% from the floor through his first two outings.

Bailey’s combination of size, athleticism, and shot-making has drawn early national praise — with analysts comparing his offensive fluidity to that of prime Tracy McGrady. His ability to create mismatches both on the perimeter and in transition has made him a focal point of Utah’s preseason offense.

“Bailey has the swagger and polish of a player who’s been in the league for a few years,” said Jazz coach Will Hardy. “He’s not afraid of the moment, and he’s already showing he can lead a team’s scoring attack.”

The Jazz have built their young core around Bailey and sophomore guard Keyonte George, creating one of the most intriguing young duos in the Western Conference. Bailey’s high-efficiency scoring has given the Jazz faithful plenty to be excited about — and Monday’s matchup with Flagg could mark the beginning of a new Western rivalry.

Storylines to Watch

While the spotlight will be on Flagg and Bailey, both teams have plenty of secondary storylines worth monitoring.

For Dallas, Jason Kidd is experimenting with rotations that blend veterans like Anthony Davis, Klay Thompson, and P.J. Washington alongside the rookie. The Mavericks’ focus has been on improved defensive communication and transition pace — areas where Flagg’s instincts have already made a difference.

Meanwhile, the Jazz are still fine-tuning their rotation behind Bailey. Walker Kessler’s interior presence and Jordan Clarkson’s veteran leadership remain key, but Hardy has used the preseason to test new offensive sets built around Bailey’s isolation scoring.

Another area to watch is how both rookies handle defensive matchups. Flagg’s ability to guard multiple positions will be tested against Bailey’s length and first step, while Bailey will be forced to contend with Flagg’s physicality and off-ball movement.

What’s at Stake

Though it’s only preseason, the game carries symbolic weight. For fans in Utah, it’s the chance to see Bailey’s breakout continue against the No. 1 overall pick. For Mavericks fans, it’s another data point in Flagg’s gradual evolution from blue-chip prospect to franchise cornerstone.

Both rookies are expected to play around 20–25 minutes as their respective teams continue to manage workloads ahead of next week’s regular season.

Prediction and Outlook

Expect an entertaining, fast-paced game filled with highlight plays and glimpses of future stardom. Bailey may have the early edge as a pure scorer, but Flagg’s all-around polish and defensive instincts could help Dallas keep it close.

Projected Score: Jazz 112, Mavericks 108.
Key Prop Bet: Ace Bailey Over 19.5 points (–115).
X-Factor: Cooper Flagg’s defensive impact and playmaking versatility.