Dallas Mavericks rookie sensation Cooper Flagg will miss Thursday's crucial game against the Los Angeles Lakers due to a left midfoot sprain. The injury, confirmed by an MRI on Wednesday, occurred during the Mavs' loss at Phoenix on Tuesday. Flagg, the #1 overall pick and Rookie of the Year frontrunner, will also sit out the Rising Stars Game at All-Star Weekend.

The team expects him back immediately after the break, with his next appearance likely against the Minnesota Timberwolves on February 20th. His absence comes as the Mavs continue their dismal eight-game losing streak, despite Flagg averaging 29.7 points during that stretch.