Mavericks Shut Down Kyrie Irving for Season

Nine-time All-Star to focus on recovery, return in 2026-27 campaign

Published on Feb. 24, 2026

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The Dallas Mavericks have confirmed that veteran guard Kyrie Irving will miss the remainder of the 2026-27 NBA season as he continues his recovery from knee surgery. Irving has not played this season after undergoing an operation last March to repair a torn left ACL. The team says Irving is progressing well, but they will not rush his return, with the focus on having him fully healthy for next season.

Why it matters

Irving's absence is a significant blow to the Mavericks' playoff hopes, as he was expected to team up with rising star Cooper Flagg to form a formidable backcourt. The decision to shut him down for the season reflects the organization's commitment to Irving's long-term health and their belief that he can be a key piece in their championship aspirations next year.

The details

The Mavericks said in a statement that Irving is 'making steady progress in rehabilitation' and will remain engaged with the team throughout the remainder of the season. Irving's agent, Shetellia Riley Irving, emphasized the importance of patience and ensuring her client is '1000% when he comes back' to give him the best chance to compete for a title next season.

  • Irving underwent knee surgery in March 2026.
  • The Mavericks announced Irving will miss the rest of the 2026-27 season on February 18, 2026.

The players

Kyrie Irving

A nine-time NBA All-Star and veteran guard for the Dallas Mavericks who is currently recovering from knee surgery.

Cooper Flagg

A top rookie for the Mavericks who was expected to form a formidable backcourt with Irving before his injury.

Shetellia Riley Irving

Kyrie Irving's agent, who emphasized the importance of patience and ensuring her client is fully healthy before returning to play.

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What they’re saying

“This decision wasn't easy, but it's the right one. I am grateful for the Mavericks organization, my teammates and our fans for their continued support throughout the process. I am looking forward to coming back stronger next season. The belief and drive I have inside only grows.”

— Kyrie Irving (Basketball Forever)

“This is about Kyrie being one thousand percent when he comes back and giving himself the best chance to chase a championship next season.”

— Shetellia Riley Irving, Kyrie Irving's agent (ESPN)

What’s next

The Mavericks remain hopeful that Irving could return to practice before the end of the current season, which would allow him to begin building chemistry with rookie Cooper Flagg ahead of the 2026-27 campaign.

The takeaway

Kyrie Irving's season-ending injury is a significant setback for the Mavericks, but the team's decision to prioritize his long-term health and recovery reflects a prudent approach that could pay dividends in their pursuit of a championship next season.