Kyrie Irving set to return, Mavericks rave about leadership

Kyrie Irving is finally ready to play again. The Mavericks guard is expected to return Sunday in China, marking his first game action since tearing the ACL in his left knee on March 3, 2025, according to Grant Afseth of Dallas Sports Journal . Irving had hoped to make it back last season, but revealed Thursday that a Grade 2 calf strain in December slowed his recovery. He has practiced without restrictions since training camp opened, and new Mavericks coach Dusty May said Irving’s impact has already gone well beyond basketball. “He’s been unbelievable in practice as far as leadership and mentoring the younger players,” May said. “He’s a wealth of knowledge.” May also said Irving’s presence should make life easier offensively for Dallas’ younger players. “There have been several times in practice when you’re watching him play and you realize how much gravity and leverage he provides for the other guys,” May said. Kevin Durant, who recently spoke with Irving about the rehab process, sounds just as excited to see him back. “He’s just a savant,” Durant said. “When you think about basketball, you think about him.” Durant added that Irving is “a little anxious and excited” to get back into game action. After more than 19 months away, that sounds pretty understandable. Looking for the latest NBA Insider News & Rumors? Be sure to follow Hoops Wire on TWITTER and FACEBOOK for breaking NBA News and Rumors for all 30 teams!