Dallas Mavericks rookie Cooper Flagg was ruled out for the second half of Wednesday night’s game against the Denver Nuggets after sustaining a sprain to his left ankle. The injury occurred with 6:01 remaining in the second quarter while defending against Peyton Watson.
Injury Details
Flagg initially left the game after turning his ankle, but briefly returned to play the final 2:35 of the first half. He did not reappear for the second half. This is the second time Flagg has injured the same ankle in as many games; he previously twisted it during a game against Brooklyn, returning to lead the Mavericks with 27 points in a 113-105 victory.
Coach Jason Kidd stated that Flagg “stepped on someone’s foot” and that the decision was made to hold him out for the remainder of the game. Kidd also indicated uncertainty about Flagg’s availability for Thursday night’s back-to-back game against Utah.
Wider Team Impact
The injury comes at a challenging time for the Mavericks, who were already without key frontcourt players. Center Daniel Gafford was also ruled out during the second half against Denver with a right ankle sprain, an issue that has been ongoing throughout the season. Additionally, the team is currently without 10-time All-Star Anthony Davis, expected to be sidelined for approximately six weeks with a hand injury, and Dereck Lively II, who is out for the season following foot surgery.
Despite the mounting injury list, Coach Kidd emphasized the team’s resilience, stating, “This is the norm. The character has been displayed in tough times of being down. But we keep fighting.”
Frequently Asked Questions
How did Cooper Flagg injure his ankle?
Cooper Flagg sprained his left ankle after stepping on someone’s foot while defending against Peyton Watson with 6:01 left in the second quarter.
Is Cooper Flagg expected to play in the next game?
Coach Jason Kidd stated he did not know if Cooper Flagg would play in the second game of a back-to-back against Utah on Thursday night.
Who else is currently injured for the Mavericks?
The Mavericks are also without Daniel Gafford (right ankle sprain), Anthony Davis (left hand ligament damage, expected to be sidelined about six weeks), and Dereck Lively II (foot surgery, out for the season).
How will the Mavericks adjust their strategy given the current wave of injuries to their frontcourt players?