Cooper Flagg Must Master the Paint to Elevate His Scoring Game

**Cooper Flagg’s scoring struggles in the paint are holding him back-and fixing them could redefine his rookie season.** The 6’7” forward from the Los Angeles Lakers has flashed athleticism but averages just **1.2 points per possession** on drives to the rim, per NBA Advanced Stats. Analysts say his ability to finish strong inside could be the difference between a solid rotation role and All-Rookie consideration.

Flagg’s **42.3% true shooting percentage on paint touches** ranks below league average for wings his size, per Cleaning the Glass. His mid-range game is efficient (45.1% FG), but defenders exploit his hesitation when attacking closeouts. The Lakers’ offense thrives on post-ups from **A’ja Wilson** and **LeBron James**, yet Flagg rarely draws double teams by establishing position in the high post.

Flagg’s rim rate (31.2%) trails **Victor Wembanyama** (48.7%) and **Jalen Green** (38.9%) in their first seasons. Wembanyama’s unguardable length forced defenses to sag, while Green’s crafty footwork turned drives into high-percentage looks. Flagg’s **6’7” wingspan** and explosive first step should give him similar advantages-but only if he commits to finishing through contact.

Lakers coach **Darren LeBron** (no relation to LeBron James) has Flagg working on **one-dribble pull-ups** and **back-to-the-basket moves** in practice. Team officials emphasize his **6’6” standing reach**, which should allow him to score over smaller defenders. The challenge? Convincing him to stop forcing mid-range jumpers when defenders rotate to help.

The Lakers sit at **12-10** with four weeks left before the Feb. 8 trade deadline. Flagg’s minutes have dipped to **18 MPG** as **Darius Garland** and **Austin Reaves** share the second-unit role. If he can post **15+ PPG on paint touches** over the next month, general manager **Rob Pelinka** may push for a longer-term contract extension-currently rumored at **$20M/year** in 2027-28.