RESOLVING THE LEDGER
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See the full story · 1 sourcesKyrie Irving last played in the NBA on March 3, 2025. He has only appeared in 128 games for the Dallas Mavericks since 2023, but that will change soon. A recent update about the superstar guard’s status heading into next season provides good news for the team’s fans.
ESPN’s Shams Charania reported on Monday that Irving is back to full strength. The senior insider added that he has spoken to his new head coach, Dusty May, as well as Dallas’ president and general manager.
MORE: Kyrie Irving impresses Mavericks coach Dusty May: “Watching Picasso”
“From my understanding, he’s fully recovered 100% with that ACL tear from a couple of seasons ago,” Charania said.
“He’s been fully entrenched in the Mavericks plans this offseason. “Him and Dusty May, they’ve spoken. Him and Masai Ujiri, the new president, they’ve spoken. Mike Schmitz, their new general manager, has spoken.”
The nine-time All-Star tore his ACL and missed the entire 2025-26 season. The Mavericks acquired him after the Brooklyn Nets traded him for Dorian Finney-Smith, Spencer Dinwiddie and three future draft picks.
What’s next for Kyrie Irving and the Mavericks?
Nov 14, 2025; Dallas, Texas, USA; Dallas Mavericks guard Kyrie Irving looks on during the second half against the LA Clippers in an NBA Cup game at the American Airlines Center. Mandatory Credit: Jerome Miron-Imagn Images Irving will play alongside the reigning Rookie of the Year, Cooper Flagg, and form a dynamic duo in Dallas. The Mavericks bolstered their roster this offseason by acquiring Santi Aldama, Marcus Sasser and Zaccharie Risacher. They also selected Morez Johnson Jr. at No. 9 overall in the 2026 draft.
The team finished 12th in the Western Conference last season with a 26-56 record. While Flagg shined, the lack of playmaking and a go-to player became evident throughout the campaign. Irving’s return will change that as he is one of the best guards in the league when healthy. He also has championship experience, winning the 2016 title with the Cleveland Cavaliers.
Adding Irving to the mix, along with veterans Daniel Gafford, P.J. Washington and Klay Thompson, among others, gives the Mavericks a solid core. Reaching the playoffs will be tough as the Western Conference is stacked, but having Irving back gives Dallas a fighting chance.
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