The Dallas Mavericks will face the Oklahoma City Thunder on Sunday evening, but Cooper Flagg remains sidelined due to injury. Flagg has been out since suffering a midfoot sprain just before the All-Star break, and he will miss his seventh consecutive game against the Thunder, continuing to affect the Mavericks’ efforts during a difficult season.
Mavericks and Thunder Enter Game on Opposite Trajectories
Dallas is struggling, having just lost back-to-back games to Memphis and Sacramento as they slide towards the bottom of the standings. Their aim appears to be securing a favorable draft position rather than competing for wins. The Thunder, meanwhile, come into this matchup riding high after a victory over the Denver Nuggets. With star guard Shai Gilgeous-Alexander back from injury, Oklahoma City still leads the Western Conference despite an unexpectedly uneven season after their explosive 24-1 start.
Ongoing Concerns Over Cooper Flagg’s Availability
Flagg’s midfoot injury, sustained in a game against the Phoenix Suns, has kept him sidelined for six straight contests. The injury also prevented his participation in the Rising Stars Game, a setback for the promising rookie. Mavericks head coach Jason Kidd has maintained that Flagg’s status is “day-to-day,” but so far, there is no upgrade from out to questionable, nor is it expected that he will suit up for Tuesday’s critical matchup against the Charlotte Hornets. This is particularly disappointing given Flagg’s 49-point performance against Charlotte in their previous meeting. Still, the team shows no intention of trying to win games this season, which would lessen the urgency for Flagg’s return.
Additional Injury Issues Affecting Mavericks’ Lineup
The Mavericks face several more injuries aside from Flagg’s. Kyrie Irving is sidelined for the remainder of the season as he recovers from ACL surgery, with no plans for a rushed comeback given the team’s current standing. Dereck Lively II is also out for the year after undergoing foot surgery, and he remains in a walking boot after a limited seven-game run this season. Marvin Bagley III suffered a neck sprain following a collision during a recent game against the Kings; although he returned to that game, he missed the next one versus Memphis. Two-way players Moussa Cisse and Miles Kelly, as well as Caleb Martin (low back soreness) and Naji Marshall (right finger contusion), are all listed as questionable ahead of the game.
Key Players Missing for the Thunder
The Thunder are managing their own injury challenges, with four players sidelined. Branden Carlson is out due to a lower back strain; Ajay Mitchell is recovering from an abdominal strain and a left ankle sprain; Thomas Sorber continues his recovery from right ACL surgery; and Jalen Williams is dealing with a right hamstring strain. These absences could influence the Thunder’s rotation as they try to maintain their spot atop the Western Conference.
Implications for Both Teams and Looking Ahead
With Cooper Flagg still unavailable, the Mavericks will continue to struggle without one of their key contributors, especially as they enter matchups that could influence awards like Rookie of the Year. Meanwhile, the Thunder will attempt to capitalize on their stronger position despite missing multiple players. The outcome of this game may have little effect on playoff implications but will serve as a test of depth and resilience for both teams. Fans and analysts will be watching Flagg’s recovery closely, as his eventual return could significantly impact the Mavericks’ competitiveness in future seasons.
