Kyrie Irving Eyes January Return From ACL Injury

Dallas Mavericks guard Kyrie Irving is expected to return from a torn left ACL by January 2025, following successful surgery in March. Team officials, citing positive progress, remain hopeful he will play a significant portion of next season, though he is likely to face a minutes restriction and will probably not play in back-to-back games at first. Irving, who averaged 24.7 points, 4.8 rebounds, and 4.6 assists this season, holds a $43 million player option for 2025-26, but the Mavericks hope to negotiate a new three-year contract to align with general manager Nico Harrison and star Anthony Davis. The team has faced roster upheaval, including Luka Doncic's move to the Lakers, and multiple injuries. Irving's leadership and on-court performance are seen as crucial to revitalizing the Mavericks' playoff hopes. His return timeline depends on a setback-free rehabilitation, but initial reports are optimistic.