Dallas Mavericks Face Pacers Without Injured Rookie Star Cooper Flagg
The Dallas Mavericks will be without their standout rookie Cooper Flagg for Sunday's matchup against the Indiana Pacers on February 22, 2026, at Gainbridge Fieldhouse. The team has officially ruled him out due to a left midfoot sprain, marking his third consecutive game missed as Dallas adopts a careful, patient approach to his recovery.
Timeline of Cooper Flagg's Injury Absence
Cooper Flagg has been sidelined since February 10, when he sustained the injury during a loss to the Phoenix Suns. The same midfoot sprain forced him to miss the Castrol Rising Stars Challenge during All-Star weekend, with the team consistently listing this reason for each absence. No confirmed return date has been established, leaving his status uncertain beyond this game.
Mavericks' Injury Report and Adjusted Rotation for Pacers Clash
With Flagg unavailable, the Mavericks will lean heavily on veteran Khris Middleton, point guard Tyus Jones, and emerging guard AJ Johnson to handle scoring and playmaking duties. This season's roster has undergone significant changes, including the departure of Luka Dončić and the dissolution of the earlier Anthony Davis–Kyrie Irving pairing. The current core is built around Flagg, supplemented by additions like Middleton, Jones, AJ Johnson, and Marvin Bagley III.
Current Dallas Mavericks rotation (2026):
- Backcourt: Tyus Jones, AJ Johnson, Caleb Martin, Max Christie, PJ Washington
- Frontcourt: Cooper Flagg (injured), Khris Middleton, Marvin Bagley III, Dereck Lively II, Dwight Powell
Cooper Flagg's Impact and Production in Rookie Season
In his debut NBA season, Cooper Flagg has emerged as the Mavericks' primary contributor, averaging approximately 20.4 points, 6.6 rebounds, and 4.1 assists per game while shooting around 48 percent from the field. His performance earlier this season against Indiana included 15 points, 10 rebounds, 4 assists, and 1 block in a narrow 107–105 victory.
Game Expectations Against Indiana Pacers
Indiana enters the game with its own injury concerns, including forward Pascal Siakam, but the Pacers are known for their fast-paced style and depth. Dallas will rely on Tyus Jones to manage the offense efficiently and minimize turnovers, while Khris Middleton is expected to assume a larger scoring role. Marvin Bagley III and Dereck Lively II will be crucial in controlling the paint and securing rebounds against Indiana's aggressive play.
Potential Return Timeline for Cooper Flagg
The Mavericks are prioritizing Flagg's full recovery before reintroducing him to the lineup, with a potential return eyed for late February or early March. For now, his status is definitive—he will not play against the Pacers, forcing Dallas to navigate this contest without their key player.
