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Mavericks Forward Reaffirms Flagg’s Rookie of the Year Status After Defeat in Charlotte
Washington- ‘We All Know Coop’s a Special Player’ Despite Knueppel’s Big Night Deck: Despite a combined 45-point effort from Charlotte’s young core, PJ Washington remains firm on his teammate’s award credentials.
Following a road loss to the Charlotte Hornets on March 4, 2026, Dallas Mavericks forward PJ Washington dismissed emerging narratives challenging teammate Cooper Flagg’s Rookie of the Year campaign. This endorsement came despite a loss in which Kon Knueppel, Brandon Miller, and LaMelo Ball combined for 45 points.
When asked about the Rookie of the Year race, Washington emphasized Flagg’s consistent impact throughout the season.
“I don’t have to say anything. I think we all know Coop’s a special player,” Washington said during the postgame media availability.
He continued, “He’s been doing his thing all year. Obviously, when he gets back, he’s going to do the same thing. He’s going to continue to be special.”
Kon Knueppel shines in Cooper Flagg’s absence
Hornets’ Young Core Shines While Washington defended his teammate, the Hornets’ youth movement dictated the game’s outcome.
The trio of rookie Kon Knueppel, Brandon Miller, and LaMelo Ball combined for 45 points to secure the victory for Charlotte.
This absence potentially opens the door for other rookies like Knueppel to close the gap in the award race
Future Implications
The Mavericks will need Flagg to return to form quickly to solidify his award case. Meanwhile, the Hornets continue to validate their rebuilding timeline, with Knueppel proving to be a viable complementary piece.
