Is Cooper Flagg Hurt?
No, Cooper Flagg isn’t injured just sidelined by illness this time. So if you were picturing a dramatic on-court tumble, that’s not the story tonight. The top pick in the 2025 NBA draft has actually looked durable so far, starting every Mavericks game of his rookie campaign up to this point.
On a post shared on X, Abby Jones (@_abigaiiiil) reported that Jason Kidd discussed the mentality surrounding Cooper Flagg's absence from tonight's game due to illness. Kidd emphasized the team's focus and how they plan to adjust without Flagg on the court.
On Wednesday, though, coach Jason Kidd confirmed Flagg was out for the first time all season.On a post shared on X, ESPN's official NBA account (@ESPNNBA) reported that Cooper Flagg will miss his first career NBA game against the Knicks due to an illness. The news was confirmed by sources close to the situation and was first reported by @ShamsCharania.
There’s a certain disappointment in seeing the young star in street clothes for a national TV matchup, but at least there’s no talk of sprains or breakages just a good ol’ “under the weather” moment.
Why Cooper Flagg Not Playing Tonight ?
Flagg is missing tonight's clash with the New York Knicks because he’s fighting off an illness not a physical injury or load management decision. This bit of news dropped earlier in the day, and for some fans it felt like a classic rookie moment: Flagg didn’t even join the morning shootaround before getting moved to the injury report.
On a post shared on X, Ron Harrod Jr. (@RonKnowsSports) reported that Cooper Flagg, who has been ruled out with an illness, typically warms up at the same time as Dereck Lively II. This routine will obviously be adjusted in light of Flagg's absence.
It’s rare to see a young player miss time for sickness in this era of NBA ironman seasons, but hey, everyone has those days. Three days off now might be the breather he needs before the next grueling back-to-back run, so maybe this is one of those blessings in disguise. Sometimes a bowl of soup and a couple of rest days do more for a prospect than another night on the floor everyone from playmakers to fans could use a “timeout” now and then.
Cooper Flagg Stats
Here’s the numbers
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15.5 points per game
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6.3 rebounds
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3.1 assists
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34 minutes average per night
He logged three games over 20 points already, with a season-high 26 against Milwaukee a solid showing for a rookie who started at point guard almost by necessity. Fans have seen him hit the floor shooting 45.5% overall, 29.3% from deep, and 78.3% at the line, highlighted by those first 24 free throws made across his first eight contests. In the latest stretch, the Mavericks had Flagg playing fewer minutes (27 in the OT win over Portland, 27 in a tough loss to Minnesota), suggesting the coaching staff saw he needed a little extra management.
|
Stat |
Flagg (2025-26) |
|---|---|
|
Points per game |
15.5 |
|
Rebounds per game |
6.3 |
|
Assists per game |
3.1 |
|
FG % |
45.5 |
|
3PT % |
29.3 |
For those keeping up with the numbers, he’s right on track as a true NBA-caliber prospect maybe not dropping 40 each night, but when your team’s thin on playmakers and you end up running the point as an 18-year-old, there’s room for applause and a little leniency.
Disclaimer :
This content shares NBA health reports and player status for general information only. It does not guarantee accuracy, medical advice, or real-time updates. Always check with official team sources or trusted medical professionals for the latest player injury details before relying on any game, betting, or fantasy sports decisions.
