The Dallas Mavericks will be without star guard Kyrie Irving for at least three games due to a lumbar sprain in his back, with his absence potentially extending to two weeks, according to an ESPN report.
Irving, 32, missed last Monday’s game against the Sacramento Kings due to right shoulder soreness, followed by Friday’s matchup against the Cleveland Cavaliers due to an illness. The Mavericks confirmed he will not travel with the team for Monday night’s road game against the Memphis Grizzlies.
Mavericks Struggling Without Key Players
Irving’s injury adds to the Mavericks’ woes as they are also missing star Luka Dončić, who is sidelined with a left calf strain sustained on Christmas Day. Dallas is currently on a four-game losing streak, with two of those losses occurring during Irving’s recent absence.
Irving’s Season Performance
In 30 games this season, Irving has averaged 24.3 points, 4.9 assists, and 4.6 rebounds, maintaining his role as one of the league’s top guards. Over his 14-year NBA career, Irving has posted averages of 23.6 points, 5.6 assists, and 4.0 rebounds across stints with the Cavaliers, Celtics, Nets, and Mavericks.
The eight-time All-Star and 2011-12 NBA Rookie of the Year remains a critical piece of Dallas’ roster, and his absence is expected to test the team’s depth as they aim to break their losing streak.
A more precise timeline for Irving’s recovery is expected in the coming days.