The Dallas Mavericks are facing a significant blow this season, as star player Kyrie Irving has been diagnosed with a torn ACL in his left knee, sidelining him for the remainder of the season. This news was revealed by an individual familiar with the situation on Tuesday.
Irving sustained the injury during the first quarter of the Mavericks’ defeat to the Sacramento Kings, which ended in a 122-98 scoreline on Monday night. Following the incident, Irving, visibly emotional, managed to shoot two free throws before exiting the game.
The mishap occurred when DeMar DeRozan fouled Irving during a drive to the basket. Irving’s right foot made contact with Kings player Jonas Valanciunas’ foot, causing him to lose balance and awkwardly land on his left leg, resulting in an apparent hyperextension of his knee.
This injury represents the most severe setback in a season already plagued by injuries for the Mavericks. The team had previously lost Anthony Davis, a 10-time All-Star, to a groin injury right after he joined from the Los Angeles Lakers in a significant trade that sent Luka Doncic to LA.
Irving’s presence was a key factor in the Mavericks’ decision to execute the controversial trade involving Davis and Doncic, a move that stirred strong reactions among the Dallas fan community. Now, with Irving set to miss the rest of the season, the team faces further challenges as they attempt to reach the playoffs.
Currently positioned tenth in the Western Conference standings, the Mavericks occupy the final spot for the play-in tournament, and Irving’s absence could jeopardize their postseason aspirations. This season he was recognized as an All-Star for the ninth time, highlighted as an injury replacement, averaging 24.7 points and converting 40% of his 3-point attempts.
In addition to Irving, the Mavericks’ squad struggles with the absence of other key players. Davis was due for a re-evaluation this week regarding his potential return, and players such as centers Daniel Gafford, with a sprained knee, and Dereck Lively II, dealing with a stress fracture in his ankle, also remain sidelined.
