Cooper Flagg has one big weakness, and how Kentucky can exploit it

The best ability is availability; any coach will tell you that. Duke’s star freshman, Cooper Flagg, is dealing with cramping issues early this season limiting his time on the court. Flagg had an impressive performance in his college debut against Maine but experienced cramping late in the game. Duke fans watched nervously as Flagg required assistance to the bench, though he was quick to clarify post-game that the cramping was not serious. However, it happened again in the second game, leading Duke head coach Jon Scheyer to talk about how they had to help him.

As we have mentioned, Duke has 8 players who play 19 minutes a game; no other player is on the court over 10 minutes a game so far. Kentucky has no players over 25 minutes a game and 10 logging over 13 minutes a game; the Cats go deeper into their bench.

The Wildcats also play fast, averaging 78 possessions per game, according to the team rank. This high tempo is just one part. Kentucky's offense has a lot of motion, which will force Flagg to follow guys all around the court. This will push Duke's endurance, testing whether Flagg’s conditioning can keep up with Kentucky's pace. The Wildcats are well-prepared to exploit any stamina issues if they show up again.

Cramping can be especially problematic in intense, back-and-forth games, as you do a lot more running when the game is tight. Eight of Duke's games have been close so far. With a player the caliber of Flagg cramping, the Cats should look to keep him moving as much as possible. Run as many zoom actions as possible involving Flagg, keep him following people around the court, and push the tempo off makes and misses.

Flagg currently averages 15 points, 9 rebounds, 4 assists, 2 steals, and 1 block in 27 minutes a game, shooting 44 percent overall and 25 percent from the three-point line.

The game will air on ESPN following the Kansas vs. Michigan State matchup. In your opinion will Flagg's cramping be an issue that helps the Cats?