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2w ago

Mavericks Rookie Cooper Flagg Out With Midfoot Sprain as Ace Bailey Replaces Him in Rising Stars

The MRI-confirmed injury leaves his return timeline unclear heading into the All-Star break.

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Feb 7, 2026; San Antonio, Texas, USA; Dallas Mavericks forward Cooper Flagg (32) looks on in the first half against the San Antonio Spurs at Frost Bank Center. Mandatory Credit: Daniel Dunn-Imagn Images/File Photo
DALLAS, TEXAS - FEBRUARY 5: Cooper Flagg #32 of the Dallas Mavericks handles the ball as Stephon Castle #5 of the San Antonio Spurs defends during the first half at American Airlines Center on February 5, 2026 in Dallas, Texas. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Ron Jenkins/Getty Images)
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Overview

  • Dallas announced an MRI revealed a left midfoot sprain for Cooper Flagg sustained Tuesday at Phoenix, ruling him out for Thursday’s game at the Lakers and for the Rising Stars event.
  • The NBA named Utah rookie Ace Bailey to replace Flagg on Team Melo for Friday’s Rising Stars mini-tournament.
  • The Mavericks have not set a timetable for Flagg’s return and said updates will be provided as appropriate, with one report citing a team source suggesting he could be available after the break without a firm date.
  • Injury analyst Jeff Stotts noted midfoot sprains can vary widely in severity and historically average about 8.5 games missed, a general estimate not specific to Flagg.
  • Flagg, the 2025 No. 1 pick, is averaging roughly 20.4 points, 6.6 rebounds and 4.1 assists; his absence comes during Dallas’s extended skid and could tighten the Rookie of the Year race highlighted by Charlotte’s Kon Knueppel.