The Dallas Mavericks have confirmed a major injury update as star guard Kyrie Irving will miss the remainder of the 2025-26 NBA season. The nine-time All-Star has decided to continue his rehabilitation from a serious knee injury and is now targeting a full return for the 2026-27 season.
The decision comes after months of recovery following ACL surgery, with the organization and player choosing long-term fitness over a rushed comeback.
Injury Background and Recovery Timeline
Irving suffered a left knee ACL tear on March 3, 2025, during a game against the Sacramento Kings. He played only nine minutes in that game before leaving the court with what later turned out to be a season-ending injury.
He underwent successful ACL reconstruction surgery later that month and has been progressing steadily in rehabilitation. However, the team confirmed that he will not return this season to ensure a complete and safe recovery.
| Injury Details | Information |
|---|---|
| Injury Date | March 3, 2025 |
| Opponent | Sacramento Kings |
| Injury Type | Left knee ACL tear |
| Surgery | March 2025 (successful) |
| 2025-26 Games Played | 0 |
| Expected Return | Start of 2026-27 season |
Team Statement and Kyrie Message
The Mavericks stated that Irving is making steady progress and will remain involved with the team while continuing his rehab program.
Irving also shared that the decision was difficult but necessary. He expressed gratitude to the organization, teammates, and fans, adding that his focus is to return stronger and fully healthy for the next season.
His management confirmed that the priority is to bring him back at 100% fitness so he can compete at a championship level.
Mavericks Season Situation
Dallas has struggled throughout the season and currently sits near the bottom of the Western Conference standings with a 19–35 record. Their playoff chances are extremely slim, and the decision to keep Irving out aligns with the team’s long-term planning.
Some analysts believe the move also helps the franchise manage risk and improve draft positioning, rather than pushing their star into unnecessary minutes late in a difficult season.
Kyrie Irving’s Recent Performance
Before the injury, Irving remained one of the league’s most efficient scoring guards.
| Season | Points | Rebounds | Assists | FG% | 3PT% |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2024-25 | 24.7 | 4.8 | 3.6 | 47.3% | 40.1% |
This marks the first time in his 15-year NBA career that Irving will miss an entire season, highlighting the seriousness of the injury.
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Irving is a key part of the Mavericks’ core alongside Luka Dončić. His absence has affected the team’s balance and offensive depth, making the upcoming season even more important for Dallas’ long-term plans.
The focus now shifts to the 2026-27 season, where the franchise hopes a fully healthy Irving can help lead a strong comeback and push for playoff success.
