The Dallas Mavericks have had their share of ups and downs this season, and as they prepare to face the Utah Jazz on Saturday, they’re hoping to string together some momentum. But they may have to do it without their standout rookie. Cooper Flagg, who’s been one of the brightest spots in an otherwise rocky campaign, is listed as doubtful with an ankle injury.
Flagg tweaked the ankle during a loss to the Denver Nuggets earlier in the week and was sidelined for the Mavericks’ win over the Jazz on Thursday. As of now, the signs aren’t pointing toward a return for Saturday’s rematch.
That’s a tough blow for a Mavs team sitting at 16-26 and currently 12th in the Western Conference. The good news?
They’re just two games back of the 10th seed and a shot at the play-in tournament. The bad news?
They’ve got one of the league’s longest injury reports, and Flagg’s absence would only add to the uphill climb.
Still, there’s a bigger picture to consider. While Dallas is technically within striking distance of the postseason, there’s a case to be made for prioritizing the lottery.
With no control over their own first-round pick again until 2031, this season could be their last real shot at adding another young difference-maker through the draft. That’s not to say they’re tanking - but the long-term stakes are clear.
As for Flagg, he’s already made a strong case for Rookie of the Year. Through 40 games, he’s averaging 18.8 points, 6.3 rebounds, 4.2 assists, and 1.3 steals while playing over 34 minutes a night. He’s shooting 47.8% from the field, 28.7% from three, and 81.8% from the line - solid all-around numbers for a first-year player still adjusting to the NBA grind.
Among rookies, only Charlotte’s Kon Knueppel is scoring more. That puts Flagg firmly in the upper echelon of this year’s class, and his impact on both ends of the floor has been undeniable. He’s not just stuffing the stat sheet - he’s giving Dallas a glimpse of what the future could look like.
The Mavericks may be limping into Saturday’s game, but their long-term outlook is tied closely to Flagg’s development. Whether he suits up or not, he remains the centerpiece of a franchise trying to find its footing - and possibly, its next big leap.