Kevin Jairaj-Imagn Images

Mavericks Announce Cooper Flagg News on Sunday

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Gavin Groe | Last updated Dec 21, 2025 4:27 PM ET

The Dallas Mavericks’ season has been a major disappointment, as the franchise has struggled to remain competitive and the overall direction of the organization is uncertain.

Following Saturday’s loss to the Philadelphia 76ers, the Mavericks dropped to 11–18, leaving them outside the playoff picture.

Even so, Dallas does have one bright spot to build around, rookie small forward Cooper Flagg. Selected first overall in the 2025 NBA Draft, the 19-year-old has shown steady growth in his debut season.

Flagg is averaging 18.8 points, 6.4 rebounds, 3.5 assists and 1.3 steals per game while shooting an efficient 47.8% from the field.

His perimeter shooting remains a work in progress at 23.4% from beyond the arc, but his overall impact has given the Mavericks hope that he can be the focal point of their future.

Dallas Mavericks forward Cooper Flagg (32)Lucas Peltier-Imagn Images

Flagg has been remarkably durable in his rookie campaign, missing only one game for the Mavericks while appearing in 28 contests.

That streak of availability is now in jeopardy, as Dallas announced its official injury report ahead of Monday’s road matchup against the New Orleans Pelicans with Flagg listed.

The team revealed that he is dealing with a back injury and has been given a questionable designation (h/t Mike Curtis of the Dallas Morning News).

While the Mavericks will hope their first overall pick can suit up, his status introduces uncertainty for a roster already searching for stability.

Mavs rookie Cooper Flagg is questionable for tomorrow’s game vs. the #Pelicans due to a back contusion.

Klay Thompson is questionable with left knee soreness, while Max Christie is also questionable with an illness.

Two-ways Moussa Cisse & Kelly Miles are questionable as well.
— Mike Curtis (@MikeACurtis2) December 21, 2025

Despite his youth, Flagg has already emerged as a primary offensive option for Dallas, with opposing defenses beginning to tailor game plans around slowing him down. His ability to create shots and draw attention has opened opportunities for teammates, underscoring his importance to the Mavericks’ offensive identity.

On the other end, Flagg’s versatility as a two-way wing has been evident, guarding multiple positions, switching effectively and providing reliable weak-side help.

The team’s overall energy and execution noticeably improve when he is on the floor, a reflection of both his high usage rate and his growing influence. While his perimeter shooting remains inconsistent, those struggles are typical for a rookie.

Flagg’s maturity and work ethic have drawn praise, and Dallas views him as the centerpiece of its rebuild, a player around whom the roster will be constructed. If Flagg is unable to go on Monday, his next chance to suit up would come on Tuesday against the Denver Nuggets.

This article first appeared on Athlon Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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