Cooper Flagg left the game and did not return for the Mavericks last night, sidelined by “shoulder soreness” after a flagrant foul from the Pacers’ Aaron Nesmith. This isn’t how you want to kick off the season, especially when a big matchup looms.
The Foul That Rocked the Game
Nesmith’s foul on Flagg was called flagrant, and for good reason: it took a helpless defender out of the game. Dallas’ Naji Marshall wasn’t having it, immediately running over to stand up for his teammate. Things got heated, leading to a scuffle between Marshall and Nesmith, both picking up technical fouls for their actions. It shows you what Flagg means to this squad already, seeing a teammate jump in like that. Even Kyrie Irving spoke up after the game, calling it a hard NBA foul but nothing more.
Mavs Get a Win, But What About Flagg?
Despite the drama, Dallas still managed to cruise to a comfortable 121-105 victory over the Pacers at Gainbridge Fieldhouse, bagging their first win of the season. That’s good news, but all eyes are really on Flagg. Coach Dusty May said Flagg would be evaluated over the coming days and was in good spirits. He even defended Nesmith, saying he’s a “great guy. Heck of a player. I’ve known him since he was in high school.” May called it “an unfortunate play” and added, “Hopefully Coo’s fine, but obviously it’s something we wish wouldn’t have happened.”
As of right now, Flagg’s status for Saturday night’s game is totally up in the air. Dallas hosts Victor Wembanyama and the Spurs, a matchup everyone was hyped to see with Flagg potentially going head to head with Wemby. Here’s hoping he’s back out there soon.
This article was created with AI assistance and published under Seattle On Tap’s editorial standards. See our Editorial Policy.
Originally reported by Yahoo Sports.
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