Mavericks HC Jason Kidd Casts Doubt on Flagg-Knueppel Showdown

Mavs rookie Cooper Flagg likely to miss upcoming game against Hornets' Kon Knueppel

Feb. 28, 2026 at 12:53am

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Dallas Mavericks head coach Jason Kidd revealed that rookie sensation Cooper Flagg will likely miss the team's upcoming game against the Charlotte Hornets and rookie standout Kon Knueppel. Flagg and Knueppel, who were college teammates at Duke, have emerged as early frontrunners for the NBA Rookie of the Year award this season.

Why it matters

The potential matchup between Flagg and Knueppel was highly anticipated, as the two young stars have been putting up impressive numbers and are in direct competition for the prestigious Rookie of the Year honor. Kidd's comments dampened those expectations, leaving fans disappointed at the missed opportunity to see the two rookies go head-to-head.

The details

Flagg has missed the Mavericks' last five games due to a left midfoot sprain, and Kidd suggested he will likely sit out the team's upcoming contest against the Hornets as well. Through 49 games this season, Flagg is averaging 20.4 points, 6.6 rebounds, 4.1 assists, and 1.2 steals per game. Meanwhile, Knueppel has been a standout for the Hornets, putting up 19.4 points, 5.4 rebounds, and 3.5 assists per game in 59 appearances.

  • Flagg has missed the Mavericks' last 5 games due to a left midfoot sprain.
  • The Mavericks are set to play the Hornets on Tuesday, March 3.

The players

Jason Kidd

Head coach of the Dallas Mavericks.

Cooper Flagg

Rookie forward for the Dallas Mavericks, who was the No. 1 overall pick in the 2026 NBA Draft.

Kon Knueppel

Rookie forward for the Charlotte Hornets, who was Flagg's teammate at Duke University.

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What they’re saying

“'Probably not,'”

— Jason Kidd, Head Coach, Dallas Mavericks (DLLS Sports)

What’s next

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The takeaway

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