Dallas Mavericks Shut Cooper Flagg Down After Vegas Summer League

Cooper Flagg, the Dallas Mavericks' No. 1 overall pick in the 2025 NBA Draft, has been shut down for the remainder of the NBA Summer League after two impressive games, including a 31-point performance against the San Antonio Spurs. The Mavericks made this decision to avoid injury risks and allow Flagg to focus on preparing for his rookie NBA season, where he is expected to be a key player. Flagg averaged 20.5 points, 5.0 rebounds, 2.5 assists, and 1.5 steals in his Summer League appearances, showcasing his two-way versatility and potential as a future superstar. The shutdown aligns with a broader NBA trend toward injury management and protecting young talent, especially following a challenging season of injuries across the league. Meanwhile, the Philadelphia 76ers will face the Mavericks in upcoming Summer League action, but with Flagg sidelined and their own player VJ Edgecombe injured, the 76ers are likely to struggle. The NBA regular season starts in October, and Flagg's debut is highly anticipated, with expectations that the Mavericks may be featured prominently early in the campaign.