Cooper Flagg's rookie season with the Dallas Mavericks ended prematurely due to a sprained left ankle sustained during the team's regular-season finale against the Chicago Bulls. The injury occurred early in the second quarter while Flagg attempted a tip-in. He exited the game with 10:11 remaining before halftime and was ruled out shortly after. Despite the injury, Flagg had an impressive rookie season, averaging 21.0 points, 5.4 rebounds, 4.5 assists, and 1.2 steals over 70 games, leading the Mavericks in all major statistical categories. The Rookie of the Year award is expected to be closely contested between Flagg and his former Duke teammate, Kon Knueppel, who averaged 18.5 points and set a rookie record with 273 made 3-pointers for the Charlotte Hornets.