Mavs' Flagg (shoulder) exits after hard foul by Pacers' Nesmith; scuffle ensues
Aaron Nesmith's hard foul on Cooper Flagg ignites scuffle (0:42)
Associated Press
Oct 23, 2026, 09:34 PM ET
INDIANAPOLIS -- Dallas Mavericks forward Cooper Flagg was ruled out for the second half of Friday night's 121-105 win against the Indiana Pacers because of left shoulder soreness.
Last season's NBA Rookie of the Year was injured late in the first half when he appeared headed for a breakaway dunk. Pacers swingman Aaron Nesmith fouled Flagg hard from behind, knocking Flagg off balance, and he landed awkwardly on the shoulder under the basket. A brief shoving match ensued as coaches tried to separate the players.
Nesmith was called for a flagrant foul on the play, and a double technical was assessed to Nesmith and Dallas guard Naji Marshall.
Flagg continued to rub his shoulder as he walked to the locker room before halftime. Flagg had 14 points, six assists and five rebounds before departing.
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