Overview
- The team announced Wednesday that Irving will not play this season as he continues rehabilitation from a torn left ACL sustained March 3, 2025, with reconstructive surgery later that month.
- Irving said the decision was difficult but right and thanked the organization and fans, while agent Shetellia Riley Irving said the goal is for him to be "1000%" ready to chase a title next season.
- The Mavericks said he is making steady progress, will continue rehab under their medical and performance staff, and will remain actively engaged with the team through the season.
- Dallas enters the post‑All‑Star stretch at 19–35 after trading Anthony Davis to Washington and is pivoting toward rookie Cooper Flagg, with multiple 2026 first‑round picks including one from Oklahoma City.
- Since Irving joined in 2023, Dallas is 75–53 when he plays and 42–75 without him; he is in year one of a three‑year deal worth about $118 million, with $39.5 million guaranteed in 2026–27 and a $42.4 million player option for 2027–28.