The Dallas Mavericks enter Saturday’s matchup with the Los Angeles Lakers coming off a 123–115 win over the Golden State Warriors, marking their fourth straight victory. In that game, Naji Marshall scored 30 points with nine assists, while Max Christie added 21 points.
Rookie Cooper Flagg contributed 21 points and a career-high 11 rebounds in 30 minutes, despite initially being limited by a 20–25-minute restriction as part of his return from a sprained left ankle. Dallas’ balanced performance helped overcome Stephen Curry’s 38-point performance.
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Flagg has been carefully eased back into the rotation since returning from injury, showing the kind of two-way impact that made him the No. 1 overall pick in the 2025 NBA Draft.
Dallas Mavericks forward Cooper Flagg (32)Jesse Johnson-Imagn Images
(Jesse Johnson-Imagn Images)
His ability to score efficiently, rebound and facilitate offense has been a key factor in Dallas’ recent wins, even with minutes managed to protect his ankle.
With the Lakers on the schedule, questions naturally arose about whether Flagg would see more minutes. Head coach Jason Kidd addressed the situation, noting that he’ll be able to get up to 30 minutes on Saturday.
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Flagg has been vital to Dallas this season, averaging 18.8 points, 6.4 rebounds and 4.1 assists per game, cementing his importance to the team as a playmaker and floor leader.
Saturday’s game against the Lakers will feature the return of Luka Doncic to American Airlines Center for the second time since being traded to Los Angeles for Anthony Davis. The Mavericks remain without Davis, who is still sidelined with a finger injury. Flagg’s expanded minutes could play a decisive role as the Mavericks aim to build on their four-game winning streak.
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This story was originally published by Athlon Sports on Jan 25, 2026, where it first appeared in the NBA section. Add Athlon Sports as a Preferred Source by clicking here.
