Dallas Mavericks Cooper Flagg (Image via Getty) Cooper Flagg is available tonight for the Dallas Mavericks according to latest reports. He does not appear on the injury report for the January 24, 2026 matchup against the Los Angeles Lakers. Hence, any concerns about the ankle issue that had lingered in recent games, have been completely removed. With Dallas already dealing with multiple absences, having Flagg in the lineup is quite a sigh of relief.The night also comes with added context. It will be Luka Dončić’s first game back in Dallas since his trade to the Lakers, a return that will naturally draw most of the attention. For a Mavericks team stretched thin, that moment only increases the importance of Flagg’s role, as he once again becomes a key figure in how Dallas approaches the game.
Game context: Lakers vs Mavericks (January 24, 2026)
The Lakers arrive in Dallas with a 26-17 record, while the Mavericks sit at 19-26. Tip-off at American Airlines Center is scheduled for 5:30 PM PT. Despite their record, Dallas has found momentum, winning four straight games.Flagg has been a major reason for that run. Over the last stretch, he has averaged roughly 18 to 20 points per game while taking on more responsibility in the frontcourt. Dallas has also adjusted its style following recent roster changes, including the arrival of Anthony Davis, though Davis will not play tonight. The matchup brings together Dončić’s return, Dallas’ improved form, and two teams dealing with limited depth.
Cooper Flagg’s injury and return vs Los Angeles Lakers (January 24, 2026)
Cooper Flagg injured his left ankle on January 13 against Denver and left the game after halftime. That came shortly after a minor ankle issue earlier against Brooklyn. The injury forced him to miss two games and briefly raised questions about how quickly he would be able to return to full minutes.Those questions were answered quickly. Flagg returned on January 20 against New York and played a key role in a lopsided win. By January 23, he was no longer listed with any restrictions. Recent games show him logging more than 30 minutes, producing double-doubles, and moving without hesitation. There have been no follow-up concerns involving his ankle or any other part of his body.
Dallas Mavericks vs Los Angeles Lakers Official injury report (January 24, 2026)
Dallas Mavericks’ injury report reflects just how thin the roster is, even with Flagg cleared:PlayerStatusReason Moussa Cisse Questionable Illness Daniel Gafford Probable Right ankle sprain Anthony Davis Out Left finger sprain Kyrie Irving Out Left knee surgery Dereck Lively II Out Right foot surgery Dante Exum Out Right knee surgeryThe Lakers will be without Austin Reaves due to a calf injury and Adou Thiero because of an MCL issue.Also read: Is Anthony Davis playing tonight vs the Los Angeles Lakers? Latest update on the Los Angeles Lakers star’s injury report (January 24, 2026)
Why Cooper Flagg’s presence matters
At 19 years old, Flagg has already become a steady option for Dallas during a turbulent stretch of the season. He is averaging 18.8 points per game while adjusting to different lineups and roles. Against a Lakers team led by his former teammate, Flagg’s availability gives Dallas a reliable scorer and defender on a night when they cannot afford to lose another piece.