The Dallas Mavericks’ season ambitions have taken a massive hit as nine-time NBA All-Star Kyrie Irving has been ruled out for the rest of the season with a torn anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) in his left knee.
Irving sustained the injury during Monday’s 122-98 loss to the Sacramento Kings in Texas. The 32-year-old guard landed awkwardly and was helped back onto the court to take two free throws before exiting the game.
“Kai, you are resilient. Excellence, leadership, and dedication is who you are. We know you’ll come back stronger than ever,” the Mavericks posted on X.
Irving has been a key figure for Dallas this season, playing in 50 of their 62 games and averaging 24.7 points, 4.8 rebounds, and 4.6 assists. His absence leaves a major void as the Mavericks, currently 10th in the Western Conference, battle for a play-in spot.
The injury adds to a growing list of setbacks for the Mavericks, with Anthony Davis—who arrived in a trade from the LA Lakers on 8 February—Dereck Lively II, Daniel Gafford, and Caleb Martin also sidelined. Reserve guard Jaden Hardy suffered an ankle injury in Monday’s game, further depleting Dallas’ depth.
Irving’s season-ending injury is the latest in a string of high-profile NBA absences. San Antonio Spurs rookie Victor Wembanyama was recently diagnosed with deep vein thrombosis in his right shoulder, likely ending his debut campaign, while Philadelphia 76ers center Joel Embiid is also out for the season with a knee injury.
With Irving sidelined, the Mavericks face an uphill battle to keep their postseason hopes alive in a tightly contested Western Conference.
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