After bursting onto the scene in a big way to start his NBA career, things have gone slightly off course for No. 1 pick Cooper Flagg. Though out of action at the moment, it appears the versatile forward could be nearing a return to the Dallas Mavericks’ lineup.
The bar was set high for Flagg coming out of Duke, and he has managed to live up to expectations thus far. Through the first half of his rookie campaign, he is posting impressive averages of 18.8 points, 6.3 rebounds, and 4.2 assists per game. Flagg’s noteworthy play is highlighted by the 42-point eruption he had against the Utah Jazz on Dec. 15.
Dallas Mavericks Upgrade Cooper Flagg on Latest Injury Report
With Kyrie Irving still rehabbing his ACL tear from last year and Anthony Davis sidelined, injuries have been a common topic when discussing the Mavericks. Recently, Dallas’ star rookie has also joined the list of players out of action.
Flagg recently suffered a sprained ankle that has caused him to miss time. He was absent for the Mavericks’ previous two matchups, but his return now appears to be on the horizon.
On Monday, the NBA has a full slate of games scheduled for MLK Day, with 18 teams in action, including the Mavericks. Dallas is set to take on Jalen Brunson and the New York Knicks in front of a nationally televised audience.
While Flagg’s status for Monday’s matchup remains uncertain, there has been a positive development regarding his availability. Per the latest injury report, the star rookie has been upgraded from out to questionable. This means Flagg is likely to go through a pregame routine before a final decision is made on whether he will take the floor against Brunson and company.
Monday will mark the second and final meeting between the teams this season, and, ironically, Flagg was not in action when they squared off in November. If he is unable to suit up again, the Knicks will have to wait until next season to get an up-close look at one of the league’s top young prospects.
Given how he has shined to start his career, the league would welcome Flagg’s return on national television. That said, with him viewed as a future cornerstone of the franchise, the Mavericks are likely to proceed with caution and avoid overexerting the 19-year-old forward.
The Knicks and Mavericks will face off at Madison Square Garden on Monday, with tipoff scheduled for 5 p.m. Eastern time.
