Kyrie Irving Set to Return After Long Injury Layoff

Kyrie Irving is preparing to return to the court after a 19-month recovery from an ACL tear. The Dallas Mavericks point guard will participate in one of the team's two games against the Houston Rockets in Macao this weekend, as confirmed by head coach Dusty May.

May indicated that the decision on whether Irving will play on Friday or Sunday remains undecided, depending on how he feels, particularly considering factors like jet lag. The Mavericks are also adjusting their lineup due to a limited roster.

Irving initially sustained his ACL injury in March 2025, with hopes of returning during the latter part of the 2025/26 season. However, with the team out of playoff contention, both he and the Mavericks opted to delay his return until fall. Additionally, Irving disclosed that a Grade 2 calf strain last December further extended his recovery time, hindering his rehabilitation for about eight weeks.