Cooper Flagg is not expected to play tonight when the Dallas Mavericks take on the Charlotte Hornets. He is listed as doubtful as he continues to recover from a left midfoot sprain.This is a step forward from his earlier status. He had been ruled out in previous games, so the change suggests progress. Even then, a return in this game looks unlikely based on the latest update.
Cooper Flagg’s injury status and timeline vs Charlotte Hornets (March 3, 2026)
Cooper Flagg suffered the injury on February 10 against the Phoenix Suns. He has missed seven straight games since then, which is his longest absence this season.Jason Kidd said a return tonight is “probably not” going to happen. There is still no clear timeline for when he will be back. If his recovery continues, he could move to a game-time decision in the next few games.
What his absence means for Dallas Mavericks
Before the injury, Cooper Flagg was one of the team’s most consistent players. In 49 games, he averaged 20.4 points, 6.6 rebounds, and 4.1 assists while shooting 48.2% from the field.Dallas Mavericks has struggled without him. The team comes into this game with a 21-39 record and has been dealing with multiple injuries. Flagg’s role on both ends of the floor has been hard to replace.
Dallas Mavericks injury report for March 3
| Player | Status | Injury |
| Cooper Flagg | Doubtful | Left midfoot sprain |
| Klay Thompson | Doubtful | Right adductor contusion |
| Caleb Martin | Probable | Lower back soreness |
| P.J. Washington | Probable | N/A |
| Kyrie Irving | Out | Left knee surgery |
| Dereck Lively II | Out | Right foot surgery |
| Marvin Bagley III | Out | Neck sprain |
| Naji Marshall | Out | Right finger contusion |
Moussa Cisse, Tyler Smith, and John Poulakidas are listed as questionable because of G League assignments.
Dallas Mavericks vs Charlotte Hornets Game context and rookie race (March 3, 2026)
Dallas Mavericks has lost three straight games. Charlotte comes in at 30-31 and has won seven of its last ten.Also read: Dallas Mavericks vs Charlotte Hornets injury report: Who’s playing, injured and questionable players, head-to-head records, team stats, and more (March 3, 2026)There is also focus on the rookie race. Kon Knueppel is now the favorite at -175, while Cooper Flagg is at +140 after missing time. If Flagg does not play, Dallas will rely on P.J. Washington, Caleb Martin, and other available players, with Klay Thompson also not certain to play.