Kyrie Irving's latest setback could cast a shadow on the upcoming NBA season for the Dallas Mavericks. The star guard underwent surgery on a broken left hand, an injury sustained during training earlier this month. While the team remains optimistic about his participation in the upcoming training camp, no definitive timetable has been set for his return.
Last season, the Mavericks made an impressive run to the NBA Finals, only to fall to the Boston Celtics in five games. Irving played a significant role in Dallas' success, featuring in 58 games in his first full season with the team. During that time, he averaged 25.6 points, five rebounds, and 5.2 assists per game—remarkable statistics that highlighted his impact on the court. Additionally, his shooting splits were exceptional: 49.7% from the field, 41.1% from three-point range, and 90.5% from the free-throw line.
Despite his impressive performance, Irving's season was not without its challenges. A heel contusion kept him sidelined for 12 games in December, preventing him from meeting the new 65-game threshold necessary for major awards consideration. Consequently, he missed out on what could have been his ninth All-Star appearance and any possibility of making the All-NBA team.
The Mavericks remain hopeful that Irving's return will not be delayed, as he is a cornerstone of their strategy. His three-year, $140 million extension, agreed upon last year, includes a player option for the 2025-26 campaign, emphasizing the team’s commitment to him.
The road to recovery following his hand surgery will be closely watched by fans and analysts alike. Given his pivotal role in the team’s lineup, ensuring that Irving returns fully fit will be crucial for the Mavericks' aspirations in the forthcoming season.
As the franchise gears up for another run at the championship, the focus will be on blending the returning core with any new additions. With Irving's leadership and skill set on the court, the Mavericks have the talent and resolve to once again become formidable contenders.
Whether Irving's recovery timeline aligns with the team's expectations remains to be seen. Meanwhile, the basketball community will keep a close eye on any updates regarding his rehabilitation process, eagerly anticipating the star guard's return to peak performance.