Dallas Mavericks guard Kyrie Irving's season has abruptly ended due to a torn ACL sustained during Monday night's game against the Sacramento Kings. The nine-time All-Star suffered the injury in the first half, landing awkwardly on his knee after a drive to the basket. Visibly distressed, Irving managed to sink both of his subsequent free throws before being helped off the court.
The injury, confirmed by ESPN as a torn ACL, deals a significant blow to the Mavericks, who were already navigating the season without Luka Doncic following his trade to the Los Angeles Lakers. Irving had stepped up as the team's offensive centerpiece since Doncic's departure, averaging 24.7 points, 4.8 rebounds, and 4.6 assists per game. Head coach Jason Kidd expressed concern for Irving's well-being after the game, acknowledging the unfortunate nature of the incident.
The Mavericks lost the game to the Kings 122-98. The incident occurred when Irving's right foot landed on a Kings player's foot as he drove to the basket, causing him to lose his balance and injure his knee. While the Mavericks didn't provide an immediate update on Irving's condition after the game, Kidd expressed hope that the injury wasn't serious, a sentiment that unfortunately proved untrue.
This injury compounds the challenges faced by the Mavericks, who have also been playing without Anthony Davis, acquired in the Doncic trade, due to an injury he sustained in his Mavericks debut. The team faces an uphill battle as they prepare for their next game against the Milwaukee Bucks on Wednesday. Irving's absence leaves a significant void in their lineup, raising questions about how they will adjust their strategy moving forward.
