Kyrie Irving Undergoes Surgery; Mavericks Remain Hopeful for Full Recovery
Dallas Mavericks star Kyrie Irving has recently undergone surgery to repair a broken left hand, an injury that occurred during training earlier this month. While a definitive timeline for Irving's return remains elusive, the Mavericks maintain an optimistic outlook for his recovery and participation in the team's upcoming training camp.
Last season, the Mavericks made an impressive run to the NBA Finals, only to fall short against the Boston Celtics in a five-game series. Irving played a significant role during the 2022-2023 season, featuring in 58 games during his first full year with the team. He delivered an exceptional performance, averaging 25.6 points, five rebounds, and 5.2 assists per game. His remarkable shooting splits—49.7% from the field, 41.1% from beyond the arc, and 90.5% from the free-throw line—underscored his efficiency and prowess on the court.
Despite these stellar numbers, Irving's season was marred by a 12-game absence in December due to a heel contusion. This effectively disqualified him from major awards consideration as he did not meet the new 65-game threshold. Consequently, Irving missed out on a potential ninth All-Star appearance and any chance of making the All-NBA team, a bitter pill to swallow for the accomplished guard.
Nevertheless, Irving's long-term commitment to the Mavericks is secure. Last year, he inked a lucrative three-year, $140 million extension with the team, a contract that also includes a player option for the 2025-26 campaign. This agreement ensures that the Mavericks have a foundational piece in place as they strive to build on their recent success and chase an elusive NBA title.
As Irving recuperates, the Mavericks and their fans eagerly anticipate his return to full strength. His presence on the court is indispensable to the team’s aspirations. With training camp on the horizon, the hope is that he will soon be back, dazzling fans with his skill and contributing to the Mavericks’ pursuit of basketball glory.