Dallas Mavericks star Kyrie Irving will miss the rest of the season after tearing his left ACL in Monday night’s 122-98 loss to the Sacramento Kings. The injury occurred late in the first quarter as Irving drove to the hoop, landing awkwardly after a layup attempt. Though he stayed in the game to shoot free throws, he was soon helped off the court without putting weight on his leg.
Emotional response from Irving
Irving addressed fans on Instagram Live, assuring them he would push through the recovery process. “It hasn’t been 48 hours since I tore my ACL, but the recovery process already started mentally, spiritually, emotionally,” he said. “I just wanted to let you guys know I’m OK, and I will be OK moving forward.”
Mavericks’ struggles continue
The injury is another setback for Dallas, which has been plagued by injuries all season. Big men Dereck Lively II and Daniel Gafford are sidelined, while Anthony Davis, acquired in a blockbuster trade for Luka Don?i?, has played only one game due to injury. On the same night Irving went down, guard Jaden Hardy also suffered an ankle injury.
Jason Kidd reacts to another injury blow
Head coach Jason Kidd acknowledged the team’s ongoing struggles. “The injuries we’ve had this season, guys are trying to hold it together to get other bodies back,” he said. “And then it just seems every time we get close to getting someone back, someone else goes down. We’re running out of bodies here. But guys keep fighting.”
Irving’s standout season cut short
Before the injury, Irving was averaging 24.7 points, 4.8 rebounds, and 4.6 assists per game. He was the only player in the NBA shooting at least 40% from three-point range and 90% from the free-throw line while averaging 20+ points per game. His absence leaves a major void for the Mavericks as they fight to hold onto a play-in tournament spot.
