12-07-2025
Dallas Mavericks Face Setback as Major Injury Updates Surface Amid Summer League Action
Melvin Ajinca (Image via Getty)
The
Dallas Mavericks
have encountered an early hurdle in their Summer League campaign, as newly acquired forward
Melvin Ajinca
remains sidelined with a groin injury. The update could have a lasting effect on how the Mavericks approach the rest of the tournament and assess their young talent.
Melvin Ajinca's Groin Injury Keeps Him Out
Melvin Ajinca, the 21-year-old forward from France who was traded to Dallas after being drafted 51st overall in the 2024 NBA Draft, continues to recover from a groin strain. After missing the team's opening game against the
Los Angeles Lakers
, Ajinca has now also been ruled out of the upcoming clash with the San Antonio Spurs.
Coach Josh Broghamer, Miles Kelly, Melvin Ajinca | Post Practice | 07/09/25
Before the setback, Ajinca was seen as a promising addition to Dallas' Summer League squad due to his size, defensive versatility, and scoring upside.
Having played overseas last season, his ability to contribute across multiple positions made him a standout name to watch in Las Vegas. But with his recovery still ongoing, his development has temporarily been put on hold as team officials monitor his condition.
Who Will Replace Melvin Ajinca in the Dallas Mavericks Roster?
Even with Ajinca unavailable,
the Mavericks
' Summer League squad continues to pique people's interests—especially with the presence of
Cooper Flagg
, the top overall pick in the 2025 NBA Draft.
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Flagg's much-anticipated debut was a mixed performance: while he thrilled the crowd with a spectacular dunk and solid defense, he struggled offensively, finishing with just five made shots out of 21 attempts and going scoreless in the second half.
Other young talents have picked up the slack. Ryan Nembhard impressed with a 21-point outing in the opener, while Miles Kelly chipped in 17 points, helping Dallas edge out the Lakers in a tight 87-85 win.
With Ajinca still out, both Nembhard and Kelly are expected to take on greater roles moving forward, giving the coaching staff critical insight into the team's bench strength and future potential.
Veteran Presence Fueling Locker Room Energy
Helping guide the young core through the ups and downs are veterans Kyrie Irving and P.J. Washington, who have been active on the sidelines in Las Vegas. Their courtside presence has not only boosted morale but has also offered crucial mentorship to the younger players, creating a balanced blend of competition and support as Dallas manages both performance goals and roster setbacks.
The Mavericks are optimistic that Ajinca's groin issue won't be a long-term concern and that he might still see game time before the Summer League concludes. His skillset is viewed as a valuable asset heading into the 2025–26 NBA season, making his health a top priority for the team's development staff.
Also read:
Cooper Flagg's Relentless Competitive Fire Turns Heads at NBA Summer League - No. 1 Pick's Mentality Impresses Mavericks and League Insiders Alike
In the meantime, the focus shifts to Cooper Flagg and the Mavericks' young roster as they aim to build chemistry and momentum under the bright lights of Las Vegas. Dallas will face off against the Spurs next on Saturday at 4 PM EST—a game that promises high-level matchups and continued opportunities for rising stars to shine.
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India vs England Test match
here.
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