The Dallas Mavericks are set to play the Indiana Pacers on Sunday, February 22, 2026, at Gainbridge Fieldhouse in Indianapolis without rookie standout Cooper Flagg due to injury. Battling through a 10-game losing streak, the Mavericks continue to struggle this season, with Flagg’s absence adding to their mounting challenges.
The Mavericks began the season aiming to contend for the NBA Championship, relying heavily on emerging talent such as Flagg, especially after trading Anthony Davis and losing Kyrie Irving for the year. However, they have slipped to 12th place in the Western Conference with a 19-36 record, while Indiana languishes at the bottom of the Eastern Conference standings with a 15-42 record.
Cooper Flagg Sidelined Again with Foot Injury
Cooper Flagg remains out for his third consecutive game due to a left foot sprain, officially listed as unavailable on the injury report ahead of the Mavericks’ trip. As a rookie, Flagg’s impact this season has been significant, stepping into a leading role following roster changes. His absence is a considerable blow to Dallas’ hopes of turning their season around.
The former Duke player has impressed with strong stats, averaging 20.4 points, 6.6 rebounds, and 4.1 assists per game while maintaining a 48.2% field goal percentage and 31.1% from beyond the arc. His recent form has been particularly remarkable, with an average of 29.7 points and 7.6 rebounds over the last 10 games, shooting 40% from three-point range.
Earlier in the season, Flagg delivered a vital double-double against the Pacers, contributing 15 points, 10 rebounds, four assists, and a block in a 107-105 Mavericks victory. His absence looms large for this matchup, where the Mavericks will miss his dynamic playmaking and scoring ability on the road.
Current Injury Status for Mavericks and Pacers Ahead of Sunday Matchup
Flagg’s injury is the most impactful for Dallas, but other players are also listed on the team’s injury report. Daniel Gafford is questionable due to a right ankle injury, while Caleb Martin and Max Christie are also doubtful with ankle issues. These players could potentially play if they recover in time for the game.
Long-term absences remain a concern for Dallas, with Dereck Lively II sidelined after foot surgery and Kyrie Irving still out recovering from a knee injury, both expected to miss the remainder of the season.
The Indiana Pacers’ injury situation is also challenging. Pascal Siakam is questionable with a hamstring injury but might suit up due to roster pressures. Other questionable players include Andrew Nembhard (back), Micah Potter (ankle), TJ McConnell (hamstring), and Kam Jones (lower back soreness), all of whom add to the uncertainty surrounding the Pacers’ available lineup.
Broader NBA Injury Updates as Season Progresses
Injuries across the league continue to affect team strategies and performances. Notable absentees include Ivica Zubac, recently traded by Dallas, who remains weeks away from full fitness, and Obi Toppin, sidelined with a foot injury. Other prominent players currently out for the season are Johnny Furphy and Tyrese Haliburton, compounding difficulties for their respective teams.
Injuries 2/22
CLE:
Max Strus – Out
OKC:
Alex Caruso – Out
Shai Gilgeous-Alexander – Out
Jalen Williams – Out
Ajay Mitchell – Out
Thomas Sorber – Out
BKN:
Ziaire Williams – Out
ATL:
Jonathan Kuminga – Out
DEN:
Jamal Murray – Questionable
Jalen Pickett – Out
Aaron Gordon – Out…— Underdog NBA (@UnderdogNBA) February 22, 2026
Projected Lineups for Mavericks and Pacers Reflect Injury Challenges
Given the extensive injury lists on both sides, predicting the starting lineups for this game is difficult. The Mavericks will likely miss Cooper Flagg’s leadership and scoring, placing extra pressure on players like Khris Middleton and Klay Thompson to step up in his absence. Daniel Gafford’s status will be critical, as his possible participation could influence Dallas’ competitiveness.
The Pacers, while at home, face uncertainty regarding key contributors like Pascal Siakam. With both teams struggling to find momentum amid injuries and poor form, this game presents an opportunity for either team to halt their losing streak and gain a much-needed confidence boost.
Implications of Flagg’s Absence on Mavericks’ Season Outlook
Cooper Flagg’s ongoing injury highlights the fragile state of the Mavericks’ roster and the uphill battle they face this season. As the team currently sits near the bottom of their conference standings, missing their rookie star further dims their prospects for a postseason push. With the trade of Anthony Davis and injury to Kyrie Irving already weakening the squad, the Mavericks’ ability to adapt will be tested in the coming weeks.
The Pacers, although struggling themselves, may capitalize on the Mavericks’ depleted lineup during this home game. Both teams’ performance in this matchup will be closely watched as they seek to break out of their respective rut and potentially reshape the trajectory of their seasons.
Injuries 2/22
CLE:
Max Strus – OutOKC:
Alex Caruso – Out
Shai Gilgeous-Alexander – Out
Jalen Williams – Out
Ajay Mitchell – Out
Thomas Sorber – OutBKN:
Ziaire Williams – OutATL:
Jonathan Kuminga – OutDEN:
Jamal Murray – Questionable
Jalen Pickett – Out
Aaron Gordon – Out…— Underdog NBA (@UnderdogNBA) February 22, 2026
