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Dallas Mavericks Reveal Klay Thompson Injury Update Before Facing Minnesota Timberwolves

Grant AfsethJanuary 28, 2026January 28, 2026

Klay Thompson stands with his hands on his hips during the Dallas Mavericks’ game against the Philadelphia 76ers at American Airlines Center

Photo by Nick White/DallasHoopsJournal.com

The Dallas Mavericks downgraded Klay Thompson to questionable for Wednesday’s game against the Minnesota Timberwolves due to left knee soreness, adding uncertainty to Dallas’ rotation as tipoff approaches.

Thompson did not participate in shootaround Wednesday morning. By contrast, Cooper Flagg was on the court during shootaround, even as he remains questionable with left ankle injury management. The distinction underscores how Dallas is differentiating between availability signals while continuing to evaluate both players closer to game time.

The Mavericks also updated the status of Moussa Cissé, who is now listed as doubtful. Cissé is on a G League two-way contract as Dallas continues to juggle frontcourt depth amid injuries.

Klay Thompson’s Availability in Focus

Through 43 games this season, Thompson has averaged 11.7 points, 2.5 rebounds, and 1.4 assists in 22.0 minutes per game. His role has been situational, but his shooting gravity remains important for spacing.

Thompson is shooting 38.0% from three on 7.7 attempts per game, often serving as a secondary option within lineups shaped by attrition elsewhere on the roster.

Given the knee soreness and the team’s recent approach, Dallas has leaned toward caution rather than pushing Thompson through discomfort.

Cooper Flagg’s Status and Why Dallas Is Being Careful

Flagg’s availability is also unresolved. Despite being on the floor during shootaround, he is listed questionable due to left ankle injury management.

Through 43 games, Flagg has been one of Dallas’ most relied-upon players, averaging 18.8 points, 6.4 rebounds, and 4.1 assists in 33.8 minutes per game while starting every appearance.

That workload provides context for the restraint. Flagg has logged heavy minutes throughout the season and continues to shoulder a central role on both ends.

In Saturday’s loss to the Los Angeles Lakers, he finished with 16 points, seven rebounds, and six assists in 34 minutes, a reminder of the responsibility he carries when available.

“Next-Man-Up” Mentality in Focus

As injuries continue to shape nightly lineups, center Dwight Powell said after shootaround that the team’s recent stretch has been defined by collective buy-in.

“People playing for each other, obviously following the game plan, and playing with a lot of energy,” Powell said. “But the biggest thing is playing for each other and the next-man-up mentality.”

Powell added that fluctuating availability has required flexibility, even in unconventional lineups.

“Every night presents a different set of opportunities and a different set of challenges,” he said. “Regardless of who we have out there or what you’d call a traditional set of positions, guys just have to play the game.”

Minnesota Timberwolves Bring Defensive Pressure

The Timberwolves arrive in Dallas after a 108-83 win over the Golden State Warriors, snapping a five-game losing streak. That victory came without Anthony Edwards, who was a late scratch due to foot pain.

“It was news to me, honestly,” said Timberwolves head coach Chris Finch.

Without Edwards, Minnesota leaned heavily on defense, holding Golden State to 34.7% shooting. Rudy Gobert posted 15 points and 17 rebounds, a presence Powell said requires full-team discipline.

“He’s a great presence around the rim, offensively and defensively,” Powell said. “You can’t cheat on matchups.”

Dallas Mavericks Balance Momentum and Health

Dallas enters the matchup following a 116-110 loss to the Lakers that snapped a four-game winning streak. Despite the setback, the Mavericks have shown momentum behind younger contributors such as Flagg, Max Christie, and Brandon Williams.

“I thought the group did a great job competing,” said head coach Jason Kidd. “We put ourselves in a great position to win a close game.”

With Thompson questionable after missing shootaround and Flagg questionable but active on the floor, Dallas’ final rotation picture is expected to take shape closer to tipoff.

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Grant Afseth

Senior Writer

Grant Afseth is a Senior Writer for DallasHoopsJournal.com, where he leads in-depth coverage of the Mavericks, Wings, and more. Between a focus on the latest news, closer looks at games, front office strategy, and more, Afseth provides objective coverage. Afseth contributes broader NBA coverage across platforms and has been cited in national outlets for his reporting and analysis. With nearly a decade of journalism experience, Afseth has covered the NBA and WNBA for multiple major outlets, including Athlon Sports, BallIsLife, Sportskeeda, and RG.org. He previously reported on the Indiana Pacers for CNHI’s Kokomo Tribune and the Mavericks for FanNation.

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