Mavericks Rookie Cooper Flagg Sidelined with Midfoot Sprain

Flagg to miss Rising Stars Challenge and key games as Dallas hopes for swift recovery.

Published on Feb. 12, 2026

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Dallas Mavericks rookie Cooper Flagg has suffered a left midfoot sprain, forcing him to miss upcoming games including the NBA Rising Stars Challenge during All-Star Weekend. The team has not provided a definitive timeline for Flagg's return, leaving his status beyond the break uncertain as the Mavericks aim to prioritize his full recovery.

Why it matters

Flagg's injury comes at a crucial time for the Mavericks, who were counting on the promising rookie to make a significant impact this season. His absence not only impacts the team's performance but also raises questions about his Rookie of the Year candidacy, as fellow rookie Kon Knueppel of the Charlotte Hornets has been gaining ground.

The details

An MRI scan confirmed Flagg's left midfoot sprain, which will force him to miss Wednesday's game against the Los Angeles Lakers and Friday's Rising Stars Challenge. The Mavericks have not provided an official return date, with the earliest possible comeback projected for their game against the Minnesota Timberwolves over a week later. The team seems intent on prioritizing Flagg's full recovery, rather than rushing him back.

  • Flagg suffered the injury during Tuesday's matchup against the Phoenix Suns.
  • He will miss Wednesday's game against the Los Angeles Lakers.
  • Flagg will also miss the NBA Rising Stars Challenge on Friday.

The players

Cooper Flagg

A rookie for the Dallas Mavericks who has emerged as a key player in their rebuild and a leading candidate for Rookie of the Year.

Kon Knueppel

A rookie for the Charlotte Hornets who has been gaining ground in the Rookie of the Year race amid Charlotte's mid-season resurgence.

Luka Doncic

The star player for the Dallas Mavericks, around whom the team is building for the future.

Dereck Lively

A center for the Dallas Mavericks who has been sidelined previously to improve the team's draft positioning.

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What they’re saying

“Losing their marquee participant is a major blow to the NBA's marketing efforts for the event.”

— Tim MacMahon, ESPN reporter (ESPN)

What’s next

The Mavericks will monitor Flagg's recovery and aim to have him back in action as soon as he is fully healthy, likely targeting their game against the Minnesota Timberwolves over a week after the All-Star break.

The takeaway

Flagg's injury is a significant setback for the Mavericks, who were counting on the rookie to be a key part of their rebuild this season. His absence not only impacts the team's performance but also raises questions about his Rookie of the Year candidacy, as the race tightens with the emergence of fellow rookie Kon Knueppel. The Mavericks must now balance Flagg's long-term development with the need to keep fans engaged during a challenging season.