The Dallas Mavericks might quickly obtain a serious enhance to their lineup. Rookie star Cooper Flagg is predicted to return Thursday night time when Dallas faces the Orlando Magic, in keeping with veteran NBA reporter Marc Stein.
“The expectation in Orlando now’s that Mavericks rookie Cooper Flagg WILL certainly play tonight for the primary time in 9 video games, league sources say,” Stein reported.
The 2025 No. 1 general draft choose has been sidelined for eight video games whereas recovering from a left mid-foot sprain. His absence has been noticeable for a Mavericks staff that has struggled to keep up momentum with out him.
Dallas went simply two wins and 6 losses in the course of the stretch Flagg missed, highlighting how vital the rookie has already change into to the staff’s rotation.
Flagg’s return seems to be approaching cautiously. He was upgraded to uncertain forward of Dallas’ loss Tuesday in opposition to the Charlotte Hornets earlier than ultimately being listed as questionable for the matchup with Orlando.
The expectation is that his minutes will likely be rigorously managed throughout his first recreation again.
“The expectation is that he will likely be eased in on Thursday night time earlier than seeing an uptick in minutes Friday on the Boston Celtics,” Yahoo Sports activities wrote.
The Mavericks will possible take a conservative method with their franchise cornerstone, particularly contemplating Flagg has already handled a number of setbacks this season, together with a sprained ankle and a separate sickness earlier within the yr.
Regardless of the missed time, the rookie has nonetheless produced spectacular numbers throughout his debut marketing campaign.
Via 49 video games, Flagg is averaging 20.4 factors, 6.6 rebounds, 4.1 assists and 1.2 steals per recreation whereas rising as one of the impactful younger gamers within the league.
His all-around contributions have made him a central piece of Dallas’ long-term plans.
With 21 video games remaining within the common season, the Mavericks presently sit at 21-40. Whereas a playoff push seems unlikely, Flagg’s return offers the group a possibility to regain rhythm and proceed constructing round their younger cornerstone.
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