India, Oct. 24 -- The Dallas Mavericks made a stronger start against the Indiana Pacers on Friday than they had in their season opener, but concerns over Cooper Flagg's fitness threatened to overshadow their improved performance. The rookie forward suffered a left shoulder injury late in the second quarter after taking a hard foul from Pacers wing Aaron Nesmith while driving towards the basket on a fast break.

Flagg remained on the floor in visible pain following the incident before eventually heading to the locker room for further assessment. Nesmith was assessed a Flagrant 1 foul for the contact, while the Mavericks later ruled Flagg out for the remainder of the game due to left shoulder soreness.

Cooper Flagg Forced Out Against India...