Dallas Mavericks rookie forward Cooper Flagg is set to miss this year’s NBA All-Star Weekend because of a left midfoot sprain, which was confirmed by an MRI, according to Brett Siegel of ClutchPoints. The NBA will now select a replacement for Flagg in the Rising Stars game, continuing the pattern seen with Ajay Mitchell and David Jones Garcia, who were previously substituted by Zaccharie Risacher and Mac McClung, respectively.
Since Risacher, a sophomore, and McClung, a G League player, replaced their counterparts, it is expected that the NBA will invite a rookie to fill Flagg’s spot on Team Melo.
Leading Candidates to Replace Cooper Flagg in Rising Stars Game
Among the front-runners to replace Cooper Flagg, the Utah Jazz’s rookie forward Ace Bailey stands out. Bailey, selected fifth in last year’s draft, was a surprising omission from the original Rising Stars roster despite ranking eighth in rookie scoring. This season, Bailey averages 11.6 points, 3.8 rebounds, and 1.6 assists per game. Although his strong performance makes him the likely choice, the Jazz’s ongoing speculation regarding tanking might complicate this selection.
If Bailey is not chosen, Ryan Kalkbrenner of the Charlotte Hornets presents another solid option. The young center has contributed 8.3 points, 6.0 rebounds, and 1.5 blocks per game so far. Although recently sidelined in favor of Moussa Diabate during the Hornets’ recent hot streak, Diabate’s suspension may open up more playing time for Kalkbrenner in the next few games, increasing his visibility.
The third potential replacement is Maxime Raynaud from the Sacramento Kings. With Domantas Sabonis sidelined for most of the season, Raynaud has been relied upon heavily to fill the gap. Throughout this period, he has averaged 9.9 points, 6.7 rebounds, and 1.0 assist per game. While the Kings’ overall performance has been lacking, Raynaud’s presence remains significant, alongside fellow rookie Dylan Cardwell, who has also contributed effectively off the bench but has appeared in only 28 games to date.
This selection process underscores how the NBA adapts to the evolving availability of players during All-Star Weekend, matching replacements that reflect recent performance and roster needs. The choice of Flagg’s replacement will have implications for team dynamics in the Rising Stars game and could offer a breakout opportunity for one of these promising rookies.
Mavericks star rookie Cooper Flagg underwent an MRI that revealed a left midfoot sprain.
He will miss Thursday’s game and won’t participate in this weekend’s Rising Stars during All-Star Weekend.
— Brett Siegel (@BrettSiegelNBA) February 12, 2026
