Kyrie Irving underwent surgery earlier this month to repair a broken left hand, an injury sustained during a routine training session. While the Dallas Mavericks have not provided a definitive timetable for his return, the organization remains optimistic about his participation in the upcoming training camp.
Irving's surgical procedure comes on the heels of an outstanding season where he played 58 games in his first full year with the Mavericks. Despite the injury and missing 12 games in December due to a heel contusion, Irving displayed remarkable performance metrics. He averaged 25.6 points, five rebounds, and 5.2 assists per game, boasting impressive shooting splits of 49.7% from the field, 41.1% from three-point range, and 90.5% from the free-throw line.
Mavericks' NBA Finals Journey
The Dallas Mavericks had an impressive run to the NBA Finals last season, showcasing their capability as a formidable team. However, their journey concluded with a loss to the Boston Celtics in five games. Irving's stellar play was critical to the Mavericks' success, yet it wasn’t enough to secure the championship.
A Season of Highs and Lows
Irving's season was punctuated by both triumphs and setbacks. The heel contusion that sidelined him for 12 games in December was a significant obstacle. This absence ultimately prevented him from meeting the new 65-game threshold required for consideration in major awards, including a potential ninth All-Star appearance and any possibility of making the All-NBA team. These missed opportunities were a considerable disappointment given his on-court excellence.
Contract Extension and Future Prospects
Despite the hurdles, Irving's value to the Mavericks is unquestionable. Last year, he agreed to a three-year, $140 million contract extension, which includes a player option for the 2025-26 campaign. This extension reflects the franchise's confidence in his ability to contribute significantly to their future endeavors.
The Mavericks are banking on Irving's return to full health and form, hopeful that he can pick up where he left off. As the training camp approaches, fans and analysts alike will be closely monitoring his rehabilitation progress. The anticipation is that a fully recovered Irving will be instrumental in another strong season for the Mavericks, potentially leading them further than their runner-up finish last year.
As the team prepares for the new season, the spotlight remains firmly on Irving's recovery and readiness. The Mavericks are poised for another competitive year, with hopes that their star guard can drive them to even greater heights.