deadspin: cooper flagg leads mavericks into clash with ailing, unbeaten thunder seeking historic fifth win

Flagg enters after standout game

Flagg scored 29 points in Dallas' four-point win over Miami on Monday. He also matched his career high with 11 assists and set a personal best with five steals.

Mavericks coach Dusty May praised Flagg's timing as a passer and said he could have games with 15 to 20 assists if the team's offense finds its rhythm. Dallas may need a strong showing from the young star against Oklahoma City's defense.

Thunder adjust to injuries

Oklahoma City beat Phoenix 125-114 on Monday in its first game without starters Jalen Williams and Cason Wallace. Williams has a fractured left fibula and dislocated ankle, while Wallace has a left shoulder injury; both face extended absences.

Chet Holmgren will miss a second straight game with a right knee injury, and Alex Caruso is out after spraining his right ankle. The Thunder may also be without Williams and Wallace for the rest of the season.

Younger players face larger roles

Shai Gilgeous-Alexander's leadership is especially important as Oklahoma City adjusts, coach Mark Daigneault said. Ajay Mitchell, who had a larger role when Williams missed time last season, is expected to contribute again.

Rookies Aday Mara, Bennet Stirtz and Josh Dix are also expected to get more opportunities. Gilgeous-Alexander said they would be thrust into the action and could improve through the experience, while Isaiah Hartenstein said the team trusts its players to step up.

A historic early-season opportunity

The Thunder have opened three consecutive seasons with four straight wins, a first in NBA history. A win in Dallas would make them the first team to begin five games in a row with victories in three consecutive seasons.