Dallas Mavericks fans will have to wait a bit longer to see Kyrie Irving back in action. The star guard won't be returning this season as he continues to recover from a torn ACL suffered in March 2025. The Mavericks confirmed this decision on Wednesday, emphasizing their focus on Irving's full recovery with an eye on the 2026-27 season.
In a heartfelt statement, Irving expressed his gratitude towards the Mavericks organization, his teammates, and the fans for their unwavering support. "This decision wasn't easy, but it's the right one," he shared.
"I am looking forward to coming back stronger next season. The belief and drive I have inside only grows."
Irving also took a moment to connect with others who have faced similar injuries, sending a shoutout to "ALL of my brothers and sisters out there who've torn their ACL or gotten injured doing what they love."
Initially, there was hope that Irving would make his return by January, about 10 months post-surgery. However, recent changes within the Mavericks organization have shifted priorities. Notably, the team traded Anthony Davis to the Washington Wizards and is now focusing on developing young talent like Cooper Flagg.
Currently, the Mavericks are struggling, sitting at 19-35 and enduring a nine-game losing streak. They find themselves 12th in the Western Conference, seven games behind the Los Angeles Clippers for the final play-in spot.
Irving's agent, Shetellia Riley Irving, emphasized the importance of Kyrie's health, stating, "This is about Kyrie being 1,000% when he comes back and giving himself the best chance to chase a championship next season."
Before his injury, Irving was putting up impressive numbers, averaging 24.7 points, 4.8 rebounds, 4.6 assists, and 1.3 steals over 50 games. His shooting stats were just as stellar, with 47.3% from the floor, 40.1% from three-point range, and 91.6% from the free-throw line.
As the Mavericks navigate the rest of the season, fans can look forward to a rejuvenated Irving returning with renewed determination next year.