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The Dallas Mavericks might quickly obtain a serious enhance to their lineup. Rookie star Cooper Flagg is anticipated 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 group that has struggled to take care of momentum with out him.
Dallas went simply two wins and 6 losses through the stretch Flagg missed, highlighting how vital the rookie has already develop into to the group’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 can be rigorously managed throughout his first recreation again.
“The expectation is that he can 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 doubtless take a conservative strategy 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 probably the most 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 at the moment 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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