Mavericks Star Kyrie Irving Suffers Torn ACL, Out For Entire Season
DALLAS (AP) — The Dallas Mavericks suffered another devastating blow this week as star point guard Kyrie Irving has been ruled out for the remainder of the NBA season after injuring his left knee during the team’s 122-98 loss to the Sacramento Kings. The diagnosis of a torn ACL was confirmed by the team on March 4, 2025, just one day after his injury occurred.
The incident took place late in the first quarter of the game on March 3, 2025, when Irving attempted to drive to the basket, was fouled by Kings guard DeMar DeRozan, and landed awkwardly after his right foot stepped on the foot of Jonas Valanciunas. The awkward landing caused Irving's knee to hyperextend, leading to visible pain as he collapsed to the court.
Despite the injury, Irving demonstrated immense resilience and remained on the court long enough to shoot two free throws, his eyes brimming with tears. The decision to shoot free throws was reminiscent of the late Kobe Bryant, who infamously managed to sink two foul shots after injuring himself.
“That’s just who Kai is; he’s a tough guy,” noted Mavericks coach Jason Kidd. He added, “I asked him as they were taking him off the court, ‘Are you good if you leave without shooting? You’re ruled out.’ So they took him to the free-throw line, and he shot the free throws and then we got him out.”
Irving concluded the game with seven points, one rebound, and one assist over nine minutes. He has been having quite the season, averaging 24.7 points and 4.8 assists per game, making him pivotal to the Mavericks’ recent strategy, especially following the significant personnel changes after the trade of superstar Luka Doncic to the Los Angeles Lakers.
“It hasn’t been 48 hours since I tore my ACL, but the recovery process already started mentally, spiritually, emotionally,” Irving shared during an Instagram Live session. “I just wanted to let you guys know I’m OK, and I will be OK moving forward. It does suck a lot, I ain’t gonna lie to you guys. This one stings for sure,” he admitted.
This injury marks just the latest misfortune for the Mavericks this season, which has seen numerous players sidelined. The team already lost 10-time All-Star Anthony Davis to injury just after his acquisition, as well as centers Dereck Lively II and Daniel Gafford, who are also out. Guard Jaden Hardy compounded the injury woes by spraining his ankle during the same game against the Kings.
Currently, the Mavericks sit at 32-30, clinging to the final play-in spot for the playoffs in the Western Conference. They hold only a 3.5-game lead over the Suns and four games over the Trail Blazers, making their postseason aspirations precarious at best. Coach Kidd noted, “It 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.”
If the team is to sustain its playoff hopes, it will rely heavily on the remaining roster as they prepare for upcoming games, including their next matchup against the Milwaukee Bucks.
Looking forward, Irving's contract features a $44 million player option for next year, which raises questions about whether he will opt-in or pursue free agency depending on how his recovery progresses. If history is any guide, recovery from ACL injuries typically takes between six to nine months, which would likely sideline him not only for the remainder of this season but also for significant portions of the next one.
The Mavericks aim to recover from their injuries and remain competitive, but as team fortunes have changed dramatically this season with the trade of Doncic, the future remains uncertain. With the clock ticking on their playoff opportunities, fans are left hoping for miracles.