Cooper Flagg sidelined with shoulder sprain

Dallas Mavericks forward Cooper Flagg has been ruled out for the team’s home opener against the San Antonio Spurs due to a mild left shoulder sprain. The injury occurred during Friday’s victory over the Indiana Pacers when Flagg was assessed a Flagrant 1 foul following contact from Indiana’s Aaron Nesmith during a dunk attempt.

Flagg, the reigning Rookie of the Year, will be reevaluated next week. His absence, along with Kyrie Irving—who is sidelined for left knee injury management—leaves the Mavericks without their two primary stars for the matchup.

To fill the void, head coach Dusty May is utilizing a lineup featuring Max Christie, Naji Marshall, Zaccharie Risacher, P. J. Washington Jr., and Daniel Gafford. The Mavericks are also managing several other injuries, including those to Max Christie and Zaccharie Risacher.