While the Dallas Mavericks expressed optimism about Kyrie Irving potentially returning sooner than the typical recovery period for an ACL tear, the veteran guard himself tempered expectations. He has not committed to a specific return date and explicitly stated he cannot guarantee being back on the court by the 2026 NBA playoffs.
The 2026 postseason had been floated as a hypothetical target, marking just over a year since he suffered the knee injury. Reports suggested the team hoped he might even be ready around a 10-month timeframe, potentially allowing him to play by January. However, Irving made it clear his recovery would not be rushed, even if it meant missing playoff action.
“Don`t hold your breath on that,” Irving commented during a live stream when asked about a 2026 playoff return. He clarified, “It doesn`t mean that I won`t be back. It`s just, I don`t want to make any predictions on when I`m going to be back. I just want to be back 150,000% better.” He emphasized focusing on his current slow-paced recovery to ensure his body is fully right and enjoying the process.
Irving`s injury was a significant setback for the Mavericks last season. The 32-year-old nine-time All-Star remained highly productive, leading the offense effectively in his second full season with Dallas. He tore the ACL in his left knee during a game on March 3, underwent surgery approximately three weeks later, and was sidelined for the remainder of the season.
Describing his path back, Irving called it a “beautiful struggle” but also a “mental rollercoaster ride every day,” expressing his strong desire to return to playing.
Having Irving back later in the 2025-26 season would provide a major boost to the Mavericks, who are expected to be playoff contenders despite the surprising mid-season trade of superstar guard Luka Dončić. The arrival of top draft pick Cooper Flagg has generated excitement among fans after a disappointing previous season. Free agent acquisition D`Angelo Russell is anticipated to play a key role in the backcourt while Irving remains out.
Mavericks coach Jason Kidd had previously hinted at a possible winter return for Irving.
Kidd remarked that he avoided setting a precise date (like “January, February, March”) to prevent being held to it, noting he knows Irving will push to come back early. He added that based on conversations and Irving`s approach to documenting his recovery, he wouldn`t be surprised if the guard returned sooner than later.
Jasper Hawthorne