The Dallas Mavericks’ playoff hopes took a devastating hit after star guard Kyrie Irving suffered a torn ACL in his left knee, ruling him out for the remainder of the season. A source close to the situation confirmed the injury to The Associated Press on Tuesday.
Irving’s Emotional Exit
Irving sustained the injury in the first quarter of the Mavericks’ 122-98 loss to the Sacramento Kings on Monday night. The 32-year-old was fouled on a drive to the basket, landing awkwardly on his left leg after stepping on an opponent’s foot. His knee hyperextended, and he immediately fell to the floor in pain.
Displaying immense resilience, Irving sank two free throws with tears streaming down his face before exiting the game.
A Crushing Blow to Dallas
This is the biggest injury setback for the Mavericks this season, adding to a string of absences that have derailed their campaign. The team had already lost 10-time All-Star Anthony Davis to a groin injury shortly after his highly scrutinized trade from the Lakers for Luka Doncic.
Irving was the key reason Dallas felt confident in proceeding with the controversial Davis-for-Doncic deal, a move that sparked outrage among Mavericks fans. Now, with Irving sidelined and Dallas struggling at 10th place in the Western Conference barely clinging to a play-in spot their postseason prospects appear bleak.
What’s Next for Irving and the Mavericks?
Irving, who made his ninth All-Star appearance this season, was averaging 24.7 points per game, shooting 40% from three-point range. He has a $44 million player option for next season, and his recovery timeline suggests he could return just before the start of training camp for the 2025-26 season.
Meanwhile, the Mavericks continue to battle injuries, with Anthony Davis, Daniel Gafford (sprained knee), and Dereck Lively II (stress fracture) all still sidelined.
With their season hanging by a thread, Dallas will now have to fight for a playoff spot without its biggest remaining star a daunting task for the defending Western Conference champions.
Our channels shares politics, arts & culture, sports, business, Lifestyle, science, technology, health, education, history and environmental news across the globe.
Suomi 
English 