Irving spoke directly to Mavericks fans as he prepares to make his return to the court. “I want to give a huge shoutout to my MFFL’s because we’ve been very patient and they’ve been very patient with me. I’m just looking forward to getting back home and playing a few games in front of them, and just getting my feet wet… having that crowd pop again,” he said, per DLLS Mavs on X.

Expectations are huge, considering this year will mark the first time that Irving shares the court with rising star Cooper Flagg, who was named the NBA Rookie of the Year for his efforts last season, narrowly beating former Duke teammate Kon Knueppel for the award.

Irving’s long-awaited return

The Houston Rockets defeated the Dallas Mavericks 135-117 in the first of two games the teams will play in Macau as part of the preseason. In the second game, Dallas is expected to get a major boost with the anticipated return of Kyrie Irving, who hasn’t played in nearly 20 months.

Irving tore his ACL in the first quarter of a game against the Sacramento Kings in March 2025, just days after a trade between the Mavericks and the Lakers sent Luka Doncic to the Lakers in exchange for Anthony Davis.

It was immediately clear that his season was over, and he did not return the following season as Dallas lost playoff hopes relatively early—though with flashes of something good in the performance shown by Cooper Flagg.

However, Irving is making his comeback, with his first game after nearly 20 months expected to be in Macau on Sunday, when the Mavs play the Rockets. Kyrie is 34 years old, but the 2016 NBA champion with the Cleveland Cavaliers surely still has much to offer.

Key takeaways

• Kyrie Irving thanked Dallas fans as he prepares to make his return.
• 135-117 was the score as Houston defeated Dallas in Macau.
• March 2025 marked when Kyrie Irving tore his ACL against Sacramento.

According to Basketball Ground, Miami is framing a potential blockbuster deal to acquire Irving. In exchange, the Dallas Mavericks would receive a youth-and-draft package headlined by Nikola Jovic and Pelle Larsson, alongside a 2028 first-round pick, a 2029 second-round pick, and an unprotected 2030 first-round selection.

Despite rampant speculation, Marc Stein of The Stein Line reports that the Mavericks have no immediate plans to place Irving on the trade block. With the franchise laser-focused on building a contender around rookie phenom Cooper Flagg, front-office leadership sees no reason to rush a deal.

Because Irving carries a massive cap hit near $39.5 million, executing a salary-matching trade under NBA collective bargaining agreement rules would force the Heat to gut core rotation pieces—including key contributors like Andrew Wiggins—along with essential role players and valuable draft capital.

The Heat face financial restrictions, like operating tight against second-apron hard caps, limiting the franchise’s ability to absorb high-salary veterans without shedding significant assets or taking back unwanted contracts in return.

Would Irving actually make sense for the Heat at this stage of their timeline?

Integrating Irving into head coach Erik Spoelstra’s scheme would instantly elevate Miami’s half-court shot creation. Renowned for his dynamic late-clock execution, the eight-time All-Star provides the exact high-leverage scoring needed to cure the Heat’s routine offensive lulls.

In an hypothetical scenario, if the pursuit materializes, Irving would join a re-engineered roster that already landed superstar Giannis Antetokounmpo from Milwaukee earlier this summer. Together, the high-profile moves have reignited title expectations across South Beach for a franchise hungry to return to the top of the NBA mountain.

His gravity as a pull-up shooter would unlock critical floor spacing for paint-dominant stars Bam Adebayo and Antetokounmpo. Furthermore, running a central pick-and-roll with Irving and Adebayo would instantly give Miami one of the most lethal two-man actions in the Eastern Conference.

Projected Heat starting lineup with Irving

If Miami manages to pull off the trade, Irving would slot directly into what suddenly looks like one of the most formidable starting units in the league. Here is how the Heat’s projected starting five would stack up with Irving running point:

• PG: Kyrie Irving
• SG: Klay Thompson
• SF: Andrew Wiggins
• PF: Giannis Antetokounmpo
• C: Bam Adebayo

O’Neal made some interesting comments when that report was brought up on the latest episode of The Big Podcast with Shaq. During the conversation, Adam Lefkoe mentioned hearing about the possibility of LeBron joining Cleveland and bringing Kyrie Irving along, but Shaq offered a blunt response.

“Kyrie ain’t letting that happen,” O’Neal said. Iman Shumpert, who played with both stars on the Cavaliers and was present on the podcast, pointed out that Irving could not really have stopped this from happening, as the Mavericks could trade him without his consent. The 34-year-old does not have a no-trade clause that would allow him to control where he goes.

Shaq’s point

O’Neal’s primary point, though, is that Irving does not want to team up with James again. That is quite interesting. Irving and James previously had been teammates on the Cavaliers from 2014 to 2017. They won a championship together in 2016 by stunningly overturning a 3-1 deficit in the NBA Finals against the 73-9 Golden State Warriors.

The Warriors would win the rematch against the Cavaliers in the 2017 NBA Finals, and that was the last time we saw the duo together. Irving asked out during the 2017 offseason, reportedly because he no longer wanted to play a secondary role behind James. The Cavaliers would then trade him to the Boston Celtics to end what had been an incredibly successful partnership.

The reason why a James-Irving reunion on the Cavaliers was highly unlikely was that the Mavericks did not want to trade him. The nine-time All-Star, who missed all of last season with a torn ACL, was not going to push for a move, either, as he is comfortable with his situation.

Past rumors of Irving pursuing James

It should not be forgotten that Irving reportedly pushed for the Mavericks to acquire James in 2023. He was even said to have tried to persuade his former teammate to join him in Dallas. It was not to be, though.

Shams Charania of ESPN reported that Irving, after missing the entirety of the 2025-26 season following a torn ACL sustained on March 3, 2025, is now fully healthy and set to be fully part of the team’s plans for next season. “He’s fully recovered, 100% from that ACL tear. He’s been fully entrenched with the Mavericks plans this offseason,” Charania said on The Stephen A. Smith Show.

Irving and the Mavericks were cautious with his recovery throughout last season, and understandably so. The Mavs were in the first year of a post-Luka Doncic rebuild, and rushing Irving back made little sense given how far the squad was from contending for a playoff spot.

Irving as a key piece for the Mavericks

At 34 years old, history has not been kind to smaller guards suffering severe knee injuries. However, modern medicine has advanced tremendously compared to just five years ago, fueling hope that the Mavericks star can make a full recovery, especially after taking his time in rehabilitation.

Irving will serve as the most veteran player on a young Mavs squad that is betting everything on Cooper Flagg as its foundational pillar. He will bring the point guard presence that Dallas severely lacked last season when forced to rotate several players at the position.

It will be compelling to see how Irving fits into the Mavericks‘ plans. He has two years remaining on his contract, featuring a player option for the 2027-28 season, and at 34 years old, he does not entirely fit the team’s long-term timeline or aspirations.

Notably, Irving was reportedly one of the stars LeBron James wanted to team up with, though the Cleveland Cavaliers apparently failed to pull off an adequate trade. During the 2024-25 NBA season, Irving averaged 24.7 points, 4.8 rebounds, and 4.6 assists per game while shooting 47% from the field, 40% from three-point range, and 92% from the free-throw line.

Rather than waiting on the two veterans to make their own choices, Yahoo Sports‘ Kevin O’Connor reports that LeBron is holding out to see if prospective teams asking about his services will actively pursue trade or sign-and-trade deals for Irving or Davis.

With both stars expected to be made available to several of LeBron’s reported suitors, whether a team can land either co-star could ultimately dictate which jersey James dons next season.

Despite the overwhelming free agency buzz, James appears in no rush to break his silence. That patient approach leaves teams like the Golden State Warriors waiting in the wings, especially with Stephen Curry publicly acknowledging the intriguing possibility of teaming up with LeBron.

LeBron to Miami?

Among the most intriguing storylines in LeBron’s free agency saga is the chatter surrounding a potential return to the Miami Heat. The organization was recently forced to set the record straight on a potential reunion after a viral video sparked widespread speculation online.

While LeBron’s deep connection to South Florida naturally fuels fan nostalgia, league insiders like ESPN‘s Shams Charania report that rival franchises—namely the Cleveland Cavaliers and Golden State Warriors—are actively making moves to position themselves in the sweepstakes.

While LeBron spent his offseason taking in the action at the 2026 World Cup—notably celebrating USMNT 🇺🇸 forward Folarin Balogun’s goal against Bosnia and Herzegovina in the Round of 32—his fanbase remains on high alert, eagerly awaiting the superstar’s next—and potentially final—chapter.

Irving made the comments during a live stream on Twitch, where he reacted to New York‘s postseason success. “The Knicks making the Finals is OD… Knicks fans gonna go bonkers man. Its gonna be one of those ones,” Irving said while discussing the atmosphere surrounding the franchise.

He continued by highlighting the people responsible for the run. “They done made it to the NBA Finals, done earned their ticket… I’m excited to watch them too… Mike Brown leading the helm, Jalen Brunson great PG… great pieces around him.” Irving’s comments reflected genuine respect for what the Knicks have accomplished this season.

Irving knows what it takes to reach the Finals

Irving’s praise carries extra weight because he understands how difficult it is to get there. Throughout his career, he has reached the NBA Finals four times, all during his run with the Cleveland Cavaliers from 2015 through 2018. Those appearances helped establish him as one of the most accomplished playoff guards of his generation.

His greatest moment came in 2016 when he helped the Cavaliers capture the NBA championship. Irving famously hit the go-ahead three-pointer late in Game 7 against the Golden State Warriors, securing the only championship ring of his career and completing one of the most memorable Finals victories in league history.

For the Knicks, this Finals appearance represents a chance to end a championship drought that stretches back more than five decades. New York last won an NBA title in 1973, making this run one of the most significant moments in franchise history.

Irving shared the update during a live stream on Twitch, where he spoke openly about the progress he has made over the past several months. “I am definitely close to being over at 100% in terms of my ACL recovery,” Irving said, giving Mavericks fans a reason to be optimistic about his return.

“It’s been a while now,” Irving continued. “I’m so grateful that I’ve had the time to heal & just experiment with my body more on the court and off the court in the weight room & just pushing myself to the limit.” His comments reflected both confidence in his recovery and appreciation for the work that has gone into getting back to full strength.

What could Irving’s return mean for Dallas?

A healthy Irving would be a major boost for the Mavericks. Even before the injury, he remained one of the team’s most productive players, providing scoring, playmaking, and veteran leadership. His ability to create offense in crucial moments has made him one of the most valuable pieces of the roster when available.

During his most recent NBA season with Dallas, Irving continued to show why he remains one of the league’s most dangerous guards. His scoring efficiency, ball-handling, and experience helped stabilize the offense, while his championship pedigree brought an important presence to the locker room and on the floor.

The next big decision for Irving could come off the court. He holds a player option for the 2026-27 season, the final year of his current contract. Whether he chooses to exercise that option or explore a different path, the Mavericks would undoubtedly benefit from having a fully healthy Irving leading the backcourt and helping guide a talented roster through another competitive season.

According to former NBA player and current TNT analyst Reggie Miller, Irving is targeting a return in mid-February. That update suggests his rehabilitation is progressing well and provides optimism that he could be back on NBA courts sooner rather than later.

Irving suffered a serious ACL injury on March 3, 2025, which required a cautious and methodical recovery process. The Mavericks’ first game after the All-Star break is scheduled for February 20, 2026, against the Minnesota Timberwolves, a date that aligns closely with the commonly recommended 12-month recovery timeline for such an injury.

While this does not represent a definitive return date, it offers a reasonable benchmark. Since Irving went down, the Mavericks have struggled, posting a 21-38 record without him. At present, Dallas sits at 14-25 and 12th in the Western Conference, underscoring the impact of his absence.

How Kyrie Irving views his recovery

Irving has consistently emphasized a thoughtful and patient approach to his rehabilitation. He has made it clear that he is not rushing the process and is focused on steady progress rather than external timelines. During Media Day in September, he said, “There is consistency. I’m right on time,” reflecting a calm and measured mindset.

That mentality has shaped how the Mavericks have handled his rehab, prioritizing long-term health over short-term gains. Irving has also encouraged other players to embrace the recovery process rather than fixating on a specific return date.

Ongoing injury concerns for the Mavericks

Irving is not the only health concern for Dallas. Anthony Davis remains a question mark as he evaluates options to address ligament issues in his left hand, creating additional uncertainty for the roster in the current NBA season.

Despite the injury, Davis has been productive when available, averaging 20.4 points, 11.1 rebounds, and 2.8 assists across 20 games. Still, the Mavericks have clearly struggled without him, highlighting how crucial his health is to the team’s overall performance as the season progresses.

Superstars Anthony Davis and Kyrie Irving were quickly identified as central pieces in potential trade discussions. While early reports offered mixed signals about how the Mavericks planned to address their star core, a new update from insider Marc Stein has added clearer context to Dallas’ strategy.

According to Stein, the Mavericks remain open to listening to offers for Anthony Davis. However, he emphasized that Dallas does not share the same level of interest when it comes to entertaining trade proposals for Kyrie Irving.

“League sources say that the Mavericks still intend to field any trade interest in Davis that emerges over the next two-plus months … with the prospect of an actual trade obviously dependent on offer quality,” Stein wrote in his latest report.

While acknowledging Davis’ limited availability this season due to injury, Stein added, “Sources say that the Mavericks, by contrast, are not encouraging trade inquiries for Kyrie Irving, who remains out indefinitely after undergoing knee surgery in late March. Already vibing nicely with prized rookie Cooper Flagg in practice settings, Irving is a player they hope to keep.”

The numbers behind a healthy Anthony Davis

Davis has increasingly become viewed as a moveable piece, largely because his frequent absences have prevented the Mavericks from maximizing his value on the court. With a deep frontcourt and an evolving roster, Dallas may not feel the same level of loss if they decide to part ways with him. Given his injury history and current unavailability, the franchise could benefit more from a trade than from continuing to wait for his return.

But when healthy, Anthony Davis remains one of the NBA’s dominant forces. Averaging 20.8 points, 10.2 rebounds, 1.6 steals, and 1.2 blocks per game on 52.0% shooting from the field, Davis continues to prove why he is considered one of the best two-way big men in the league.

According to ESPN’s Tim MacMahon, Irving has been making significant strides on the court, indicating a possibility of an imminent return from a physical standpoint. However, the predominant discussion surrounding Irving’s comeback seems to center on personal factors that could influence his decision.

Irving has been absent from the court for the last 20 Mavericks games due to a knee injury, diligently working towards his comeback since then. It has now been eight months and counting since he last participated in an NBA game.

While much debate surrounds Irving’s future with the Mavericks, if personal reasons are indeed at play, they may hold considerable weight. Having been a fixture in the NBA since the 2011-12 season with the Cleveland Cavaliers, the 33-year-old still has ample potential longevity in his career.

Irving’s expected comeback

Despite the promising updates on his progress, there remains a degree of uncertainty about Irving’s return to the court and his debut this season with the Mavericks. ESPN’s Marc J. Spears noted that Irving would be ready if the playoffs were currently underway.

“Someone close to him told me if it was the playoffs, he could play right now,” Spears reported on ESPN, as Irving continues to focus on recovering from his challenging knee injury.

Against this backdrop, and the possibility that Irving’s return might not materialize, the Mavericks’ fan base eagerly awaits an official announcement. With the regular season winding down, Dallas is in dire need of positive results.

Irving is undoubtedly an integral part of the Mavericks’ rotation. Given how valuable he has been for them, his absence is expected to have a major impact on their performance. While there were early hopes for a quicker comeback—especially after recent training videos offered positive signs—the guard himself recently addressed his recovery timeline.

“There’s no timetable for when I’m coming back,” Irving said during a recent livestream. “So please don’t ask me when I’m coming back. Please don’t badger me with all the questions like, ‘Hey, if you’re healthy by November, what do you think about it?’ Please don’t badger me with any questions, guys. I’m going to be ready when I’m ready. I’m taking the necessary steps to put my best foot forward, and I’m enjoying it.”

The nine-time All-Star also expressed gratitude for the support he has received from fans, appreciating their encouragement during what he called his “down times.” Reflecting on the mental challenges of recovery, Irving said:

“And of course, there was doubt. Naturally, I have doubts like everyone else. But I was fueled by the next generation even more because I know when I’m able to show the resilience, the authenticity, the ugly times that go on with rehab or coming back from injury, I feel like that will, in turn, spark the next brain or inspire the next person. Or inspire some of my ACL twins out there, you know, who tore their ACL and dealt with all of the rigors of rehab. So shout out to all you guys.”

When could Irving return?

Earlier reports suggested that the star guard might target a return to action by January 2026, a crucial stretch for the Mavericks as they aim to make an NBA playoff push. However, his latest comments could cast doubt on those plans.

Last season, Irving averaged 24.7 points, 4.8 rebounds, and 4.6 assists per game, shooting 47.3% from the field and 40.1% from three-point range. Given his offensive influence and his ability to close out games, his absence will likely be even more significant.

Dallas has attempted to address the situation by adding D’Angelo Russell during the offseason. While he may not have the same impact as Irving, Russell is expected to play a key role in his absence. With Anthony Davis leading the way and rookie Cooper Flagg emerging as a promising talent, the Mavericks are hoping to stay competitive in the playoff race—and that Irving will be able to return before season’s end.