Dallas Mavericks forward Cooper Flagg is expected to return Thursday in Orlando after missing eight games with a left midfoot sprain sustained on February 10. Co-interim general manager Michael Finley said on 105.3 The Fan that the rookie’s status remains a game-time decision, but noted Flagg “looked good” in recent workouts. Subsequent reports from Marc Stein and The Dallas Morning News confirmed that Flagg will play on a minutes limit against the Magic, with plans to increase his workload Friday in Boston if no setbacks occur.
Clippers Lose Niederhauser for Two-Game Trip
The Los Angeles Clippers will be without reserve center Yanic Konan Niederhauser for at least two contests after he injured his right foot in Wednesday’s win over Indiana. The 7-footer will remain in Los Angeles while the club visits San Antonio on Friday and Memphis on Saturday. Isaiah Jackson, who logged 10 points in 18 minutes against his former team, is expected to absorb Niederhauser’s minutes.
Nuggets Rule Out Three vs. Lakers
Denver has listed forwards Aaron Gordon (right hamstring strain), Peyton Watson (right hamstring strain) and Spencer Jones (right shoulder strain) as out for Thursday’s home meeting with the Lakers, the front end of a back-to-back. Gordon is targeting a return Friday against New York, and Watson could follow shortly thereafter. Jones will miss his third straight game. Cameron Johnson (right ankle inflammation) is questionable after sitting out Monday in Utah.
Nets Keep Dёmin on Sidelines
Brooklyn rookie guard Egor Dёmin will miss his third consecutive game Thursday in Miami while the team manages a left plantar fascia issue. Head coach Jordi Fernández said the staff is monitoring the eighth overall pick’s recovery; Dёmin previously lost most of training camp and preseason to a plantar fascia tear.
Source: Hoops Rumors
