[VIDEO] Kyrie Irving’s Comeback Sparks Hope in Dallas After ACL Setback

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by Cristian Andal

Dallas Mavericks superstar Kyrie Irving.
Dallas Mavericks superstar Kyrie Irving. Photo: Getty Images.

The Dallas Mavericks are entering training camp with a cautious but very real sense of optimism, thanks to encouraging signs from Kyrie Irving’s recovery.

It’s been six months since Irving went down with a torn left ACL against Sacramento on March 3, a crushing blow that ended both his All-Star campaign and the Mavericks’ postseason hopes. Dallas stumbled without his steady scoring and playmaking, missing the playoffs altogether.

But last week, the basketball world got the update it had been waiting for. A new video surfaced of Irving working through a post-practice shooting routine — smooth, confident, and looking every bit like the nine-time All-Star who was averaging 24.7 points, 4.8 rebounds, and 4.6 assists in 50 games before the injury.

Naturally, fans are buzzing. Still, the true test for Irving won’t just be his jumper — it’ll be how well his knee responds to lateral movement, defensive slides, and those signature ankle-breaking crossovers that have defined his game.

The Mavericks have yet to release an official timetable, but insiders say Irving is “ahead of schedule.” Even so, Dallas won’t risk rushing him back. They’ve invested heavily in the 33-year-old guard, locking him into a three-year, $118 million deal in July to anchor a retooled core featuring Anthony Davis, Klay Thompson, Cooper Flagg, and Daniel Gafford.

Kyrie Irving.
Kyrie Irving. Photo: Getty Images.

Until Irving returns, the backcourt will be held down by D’Angelo Russell and Thompson. And speaking of Thompson, the former Warriors star had high praise for his new teammate, recalling their fiery Finals battles.

“Put him up there with LeBron, KD, and Kobe,” Thompson said on the Showtime with Michael Cooper podcast. “He’s got no weaknesses in his game.”

That’s the Kyrie Dallas is banking on — the magician with the ball, the shot-maker who thrives under pressure, and the veteran champion whose playoff experience could swing a series.

Irving’s résumé speaks volumes: career averages of 23.7 points, 4.1 rebounds, and 5.6 assists, plus that unforgettable 2016 title run with Cleveland. Now in his third full season with Dallas, his return could be the spark that propels the Mavericks back into Western Conference contention.

The question is no longer if Kyrie will return, but when. And judging from that practice video, “sooner than expected” may be the answer Dallas fans are desperate to hear.