The Dallas Mavericks received unwelcome news ahead of Thursday’s much-anticipated matchup against the Los Angeles Lakers. With All-Star Weekend right around the corner and the spotlight set to shine on the league’s brightest young names, Dallas confirmed a setback involving rookie sensation Cooper Flagg.
Cooper Flagg Sustains Foot Injury After Suns Game
The Mavericks announced Wednesday that Flagg underwent an MRI, which revealed a left midfoot sprain. The injury occurred during Dallas’ 120-111 loss to the Phoenix Suns, a game in which the rookie still poured in 27 points, along with five rebounds and two assists, in 36 minutes.
As a result, Flagg will miss Thursday night’s road game against the Lakers. He will also be sidelined for the 2026 Castrol Rising Stars game on Friday, costing him his first All-Star Weekend appearance. The team noted that further updates on his status will be provided as appropriate.
The Mavericks announced today that forward/guard Cooper Flagg underwent an MRI that revealed a left midfoot sprain.
The injury occurred in Dallas’ game at PHX on Tuesday. Flagg will miss the team’s game at LAL on Thursday as well as the 2026 Castrol Rising Stars game on Friday.
— Mavs PR (@MavsPR) February 12, 2026
This marks Flagg’s second injury in recent weeks after he dealt with an ankle sprain in January. While this latest setback will cost him his first All-Star Weekend appearance, the extended break could help ensure he returns without missing additional regular-season action.
The timing could work slightly in his favor. Dallas does not return to action until Feb. 20 against the Minnesota Timberwolves. This gives the 19-year-old additional time to recover during the All-Star break.
Rookie Bright Spot in a Difficult Season
Despite the Mavericks’ struggles, Flagg has been a consistent force for the team, which is spiraling. Through 49 games, the No. 1 overall pick in the 2025 NBA Draft is averaging 20.4 points, 6.6 rebounds and 4.1 assists while shooting just over 48 percent from the field. He leads all rookies in scoring and has firmly positioned himself in the Rookie of the Year conversation.
After a modest start to the season, Flagg elevated his play significantly. Over his last 30 games, he has averaged 23.3 points per contest. During a recent four-game stretch in January, he averaged 40.0 points per game, including a 49-point performance against the Charlotte Hornets.
However, team success has remained elusive. Dallas enters the Lakers matchup with a 19-34 record. In addition, it has lost eight straight games and sits 12th in the Western Conference standings.
For now, Dallas will have to navigate a crucial stretch without its young centerpiece as the franchise continues to build around the promising rookie.
