Dallas Mavericks guard Kyrie Irving is reportedly ahead of schedule in his recovery from a torn ACL and could potentially return to action sooner than expected, according to NBA insider Marc J. Spears.
The update, shared during Spears’ appearance on ESPN’s NBA Today, has sparked renewed optimism for a Mavericks team struggling to find its footing early in the 2025–26 season.
Irving, who suffered a torn ACL in his left knee in March 2025, has yet to make his season debut. The injury ended his previous campaign prematurely, and the Mavericks have since been navigating a transitional phase that included the departure of Luka Dončić and the arrival of rookie Cooper Flagg. With the team currently sitting near the bottom of the Western Conference standings, Irving’s return could be pivotal.
“Kyrie’s looking good, he’s ahead of schedule,” Spears reported. “He’s working out with the purpose of playing this season. Someone close to him told me if it were the playoffs, he could play right now”.
“Kyrie’s looking good, he’s ahead of schedule. He’s working out with the purpose of playing this season.” 👀@MarcJSpears on Dallas Mavericks guard Kyrie Irving returning from injury pic.twitter.com/SugdrXxZQy
— NBA on ESPN (@ESPNNBA) November 17, 2025
Spears added that Irving’s recovery has progressed so well that a return around late January or the All-Star break is considered realistic. The Mavericks are expected to make a collective decision involving Irving, team medical staff, and management on whether it’s worth activating him this season, depending on the team’s trajectory.
Before his injury, Irving was averaging 24.7 points, 4.8 rebounds, 4.6 assists, and 1.3 steals per game, shooting 47.3% from the field and 40.1% from three-point range. His absence has been felt on both ends of the court, especially with fellow veteran Anthony Davis also missing time due to injury.
The Mavericks’ front office, now operating without former GM Nico Harrison, faces a critical decision: whether to push for a playoff run with Irving’s return or pivot toward a rebuild centered on younger talent. Some analysts suggest that Irving’s availability could influence trade decisions and roster strategy heading into the February deadline.
“He wants to be back,” Spears emphasized. “He’s not just rehabbing—he’s preparing to play”.
As of now, Irving continues to train privately, and no official timetable has been released by the Mavericks. However, the insider update has injected hope into a fan base eager to see the nine-time All-Star back on the court.
