Cooper Flagg's Injury Diagnosis Leaves Mavericks Feeling 'Relieved'

Fortunately, according to Marc Stein of The Stein Line, the Mavericks are not overly concerned about Flagg's condition. Citing a league source, Dallas was said to be "relieved" that the 19-year-old star's injury isn't that serious.

"Cooper Flagg was indeed spotted with a boot on his left foot Saturday at Duke's home game against Clemson, but league sources tell The Stein Line that Dallas feels fortunate that last week's MRI results on Flagg only revealed a left midfoot sprain," Stein reported.

"It is still not known precisely how long the 19-year-old will be sidelined but the Mavericks appear relieved that the injury was not more serious."

Flagg — the No. 1 overall pick in the 2025 NBA Draft — is averaging 20.4 points, 6.6 rebounds, 4.1 assists, 0.8 blocks and 1.2 steals per game this season. He leads the team in both points and steals, ranks fourth in rebounds and third in assists.

That being said, his absence is certainly a brutal blow to a Mavericks team that entered the All-Star break riding a nine-game losing streak. Dallas needs Flagg to win, and the longer he's sidelined, the higher the likelihood that the team falls further in the standings. The Mavs are 19-35 on the season.

The Mavericks are 2-3 in games that Flagg has missed this campaign, with their two victories coming against a Utah Jazz team that is also tanking for better lottery odds.

Dallas returns to action on Friday against the Minnesota Timberwolves. They follow it up with a game against the Indiana Pacers on Sunday. They also have a tight schedule next week, facing the Brooklyn Nets, Sacramento Kings, Memphis Grizzlies and the Oklahoma City Thunder.

It remains to be seen if Flagg will be able to suit up in those games, but the Mavs are expected to be cautious and avoid rushing their best player back to the court.