The star rookie Cooper Flagg had been a constant presence for the Mavericks throughout the 2025-26 NBA season, appearing in every game until Wednesday’s matchup against the Knicks.

Hours before tip-off, reports confirmed that Flagg would sit out with an illness. This development was sudden as Flagg did not appear on the initial injury report but was downgraded to questionable midday before the game. 

Rather than pushing him to play through sickness, the Mavericks opted to rest him, sidelining one of their key contributors for the first time this season. Flagg’s absence came at a tough juncture as the Mavericks were looking to rebound from a heavy loss to Minnesota earlier in the week.

Flagg’s Role and Impact on the Mavericks

Since moving away from starting at point guard, Flagg’s game has noticeably improved, highlighting his versatility and growth as a young player. Over the last eight games prior to his illness, he averaged 17.3 points, 6.4 rebounds, and 3.4 assists.

He also contributed defensively with over a steal and a block per game, shooting more than 50 percent from the floor. His scoring average for the season stands at 15.5 points with 6.3 rebounds per game.

Flagg’s early-season trial as a point guard gave way to a more natural role as his comfort near the basket and overall efficiency rose. His importance increased given the absence of Kyrie Irving, who remains sidelined with an ACL injury and unclear recovery timeline.

Broader Mavericks Injury Troubles

Flagg is just one of several Mavericks players dealing with injuries or absences. Veteran Anthony Davis is out for his tenth consecutive game with a low-grade calf strain and could miss more time.

Injuries to key players like Dante Exum complicate the Mavericks' rotation further as his condition remains ambiguous. Returning from their recent missed game against Minnesota are Dereck Lively II and Daniel Gafford, whose availability will be crucial if Dallas hopes to compete against New York’s strong frontcourt featuring Karl-Anthony Towns and Mitchell Robinson.

The team’s injury woes put added pressure on available players to step up as they battle through a challenging part of the season.

Flagg’s illness is a setback for a Mavericks squad that relies on his growing star power to carry them through a tough schedule and injury challenges. Managing his health and the team’s broader roster issues will be critical in the coming weeks as Dallas aims to stop their slide and re-enter the win column against tough opponents.