Irving Likely Misses 2025–26 Season Opener

Kyrie Irving tore his left ACL on March 3 and has not played since; typical ACL recoveries of nine to 12 months make him unlikely to be ready for the start of the 2025–26 season. Irving and Mavericks officials say his rehabilitation is progressing — Irving called it "right on schedule" and the organization has shared optimism that a January return is possible, but the team has not provided a definitive timeline. Coach Jason Kidd warned reporters to stop saying Irving is "ahead of schedule," calling that phrasing unfair while confirming Irving is doing "quite well" and appears to be on schedule. In Irving’s absence D'Angelo Russell is expected to start at point guard, with Dallas leaning on Anthony Davis and rookie Cooper Flagg to carry the team until he returns. Irving averaged 24.7 points, 4.8 rebounds and 4.6 assists in 50 games in 2024–25, recently signed a new three-year contract with the Mavericks, and may face minutes restrictions when he returns.