The Dallas Mavericks have been dealt a significant blow as Cooper Flagg, a leading contender for the Rookie of the Year award, suffered a left midfoot sprain just before the NBA’s eight-day All-Star break. This injury rules him out of the upcoming game against the Los Angeles Lakers on Thursday, impacting the team’s lineup during a crucial stretch in the season.
Injury Assessment and Impact on All-Star Weekend
NBA insider Brett Siegel reported that Flagg underwent an MRI to evaluate the severity of the injury, which confirmed that he will miss the Rising Stars event at the All-Star weekend. This diagnosis underscores the extent of the setback for the promising talent, who has been a key contributor for Dallas throughout the season.
Performance Highlights Before Injury
Flagg had just played 36 minutes in Tuesday’s game against the Phoenix Suns, where the Mavericks were defeated 120-111. He maintained his strong form with a 27-point effort, shooting 8-of-20 from the field, including 0-for-1 from beyond the arc, and connecting on 11 of 14 free throws. Additionally, Flagg contributed five rebounds, two assists, and one steal, further solidifying his case as one of the top rookies in the league.
What This Means for the Mavericks Moving Forward
With Cooper Flagg sidelined, the Mavericks must adjust their rotation and rely on other players to fill the void as they approach the All-Star break. The loss of a key Rookie of the Year candidate is a challenge for Dallas, potentially affecting their momentum late in the season. Fans and analysts will be watching closely to see how the team adapts and whether Flagg can return to full health in time for the postseason.
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
