Mavericks guard Kyrie Irving is set to step onto the court Sunday in China, marking his first appearance since tearing his left ACL on March 3, 2025, reports Grant Afseth of Dallas Sports Journal. He had aimed to return last season, but a Grade 2 calf strain in December delayed his comeback.
Since training camp opened, Irving has practiced freely, guiding a largely youthful roster. New head coach Dusty May says his impact has been tremendous.
“His leadership in practice is off the charts, mentoring the younger guys every day,” May said. “Watching him in drills, you sense the gravity he adds for the team. Having a floor general like him should unlock many offensive options for our young squad.”
Rockets star Kevin Durant, who featured in Friday’s opener but will sit out Sunday’s game, recently discussed Irving’s rehab, Afseth notes in a separate piece.
“Being around Kai, his work ethic is unmatched,” Durant remarked. “Mentally, he’s a savant. I’m eager to see him back; he’s a bit anxious but ready to get into the flow. For my money, his return could ignite Dallas’ offense.”
Here’s more news from the Southwest Division:
- Mavericks forward Cooper Flagg would love a shot at Team USA for the 2027 World Cup, Afseth adds. Flagg poured 17 points in the second quarter of Friday’s preseason opener but sat out the second half. “I haven’t given it much thought yet,” Flagg said, “but representing my country is a pride I cherish.”
- Rockets forward Jabari Smith Jr. posted career highs last season—15.8 points, 1.9 assists, and a 54.1% effective field‑goal rate—but the 2022 No. 3 pick still hasn’t reached elite skill levels, Varun Shankar of The Houston Chronicle observes in his season preview.
- David Jones Garcia feels “reborn” after healing from a broken ankle suffered in a G League game in January, Jeff McDonald of The San Antonio Express‑News reports. The 24‑year‑old small forward, on a two‑way contract with the Spurs, earned his first competitive action in nine months on Thursday. Coach Mitch Johnson noted, “He looks healthy; you wouldn’t guess he’s coming off that injury.” Will his health hold up as the season ramps up?