INDIANAPOLIS — The Dallas Mavericks will have to wait longer for Cooper Flagg’s return, as the rookie has been ruled out for a fourth straight game on Monday because of a left midfoot sprain sustained just before the All-Star break. The team is preparing to face the Brooklyn Nets at Brooklyn’s Barclays Center, but severe winter weather in New York City has delayed their travel from Indianapolis until Tuesday morning at the earliest.
Mavericks Practice Amid Travel Delays
With extra time on their hands, the Mavericks conducted a practice session on Monday at Hinkle Fieldhouse, located on Butler University’s campus. The workout was designed as an individualized “get what you need” day, with most players including Flagg taking part in separate drills and exercises.
Coop did his workout. He looks good,
said Mavericks coach Jason Kidd.
Flagg injured his left foot during Dallas’ Feb. 10 defeat in Phoenix, which also forced him to miss the Rising Stars game over All-Star Weekend in Los Angeles. He appeared in a walking boot during Duke’s midseason break but has since returned to wearing regular sneakers.
Weather Poses Challenges for Upcoming Games
The Mavericks ended a 10-game losing streak with a victory over the Indiana Pacers on Sunday and aim to build momentum before facing the 14-win Brooklyn Nets. However, the blizzard in New York has complicated their schedule and travel plans.
The weather is out of our control. Safety first,
Kidd said.
If there’s a game tomorrow to be played, we’ll be ready to play.
Flagg Engages with Fans During Injury Downtime
Despite not playing over the weekend, Flagg participated in a fan event at the Indy Card Exchange on Saturday called Topps Rip Night, where he mingled with fans and opened Topps trading cards. Notably, he spent $7,000 acquiring rookie cards of his college roommate, Kon Knueppel.
Flagg was also scheduled to make his late-night television debut on Monday’s episode of The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon in New York City, but this appearance was canceled due to the team’s travel disruptions.
Next Steps for Flagg and the Mavericks
It remains uncertain whether the game against Brooklyn will proceed as planned or be postponed. Cooper Flagg’s earliest possible return to action is set for Wednesday at the American Airlines Center, when the Mavericks host the Sacramento Kings. Dallas will look to maintain their recent upward trajectory as they manage the impact of Flagg’s injury and the challenges posed by travel delays.
