- Oct 16, 2026
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SportsMafia Wire graphic. Team logos and player headshots via ESPN.
Dallas forward Cooper Flagg departed Friday's game against Indiana with left shoulder soreness and did not return for the second half. The Mavericks went on to defeat the Pacers 121-105.
The injury occurred late in the first half during a breakaway dunk attempt. Indiana swingman Aaron Nesmith was assessed a flagrant foul for a hard foul from behind on Flagg, who landed awkwardly on his shoulder beneath the basket. A brief shoving match ensued before coaches separated the players. Nesmith and Dallas guard Naji Marshall each received technical fouls.
Flagg, last season's NBA Rookie of the Year, recorded 14 points, six assists and five rebounds before exiting. He was seen rubbing his shoulder while walking to the locker room before halftime.
The Mavericks completed the victory without their second-year forward.
Source: ESPN - Fri Oct 23, 9:54 PM ET
Written by the SportsMafia Wire desk in our own words from the original reporting (AI-assisted, checked against the source).