Flagg healthy for Mavericks-Suns clash. Thompson's status uncertain as Dallas integrates new talent and Phoenix seeks a rebound.
Cooper Flagg is just 19 but he might be recovering from a stiff back.
Klay Thompson just turned 36 and he might still be recovering from a birthday party.
Heading into Tuesday night as the Dallas Mavericks visit the Phoenix Suns, are the Mavs' two biggest names going to be available?
Thompson, the veteran guard averaging 11.6 points this season, has been listed as questionable due to rest and as of Monday was not yet with the team in Phoenix.
Thompson is coming off a 19-point effort in a Saturday loss against San Antonio. During a break between games, he celebrated his birthday on Super Bowl Sunday with musical artist girlfriend Megan Thee Stallion.
Elsewhere on the injury list? Two-way players Moussa Cissé, Miles Kelly, and Ryan Nembhard are all considered doubtful. Dallas will again be without Kyrie Irving, who remains out as he rehabs from left knee surgery, and without Dereck Lively II, who is out after right foot surgery.
And what of the sensational rookie Flagg?
Flagg was limited to 26 minutes Saturday in San Antonio due to back stiffness, but happily, he is not listed on the Mavericks’ injury report for Tuesday’s game.
Flagg - who finished with 14 points against the Spurs after posting 32, 36, 34 and 49 points in his previous four games as he solidifies his Rookie of the Year position worked in practice Monday.
So he should be good to go, the biggest reason to pay attention as the 19-33 Mavs play at the 31-22 Suns in an 8:00 p.m. CT tip.