The Dallas Mavericks’ recent decline in the standings is set to continue, with Kyrie Irving now joining Luka Doncic on the injury list due to a lumbar strain. Irving will miss 1-2 weeks with a bulging disc in his back, as reported by Shams Charania. He added, “Dallas Mavericks star Kyrie Irving has a bulging disc in his back and is expected to miss at least 1 to 2 weeks, sources tell me and Tim MacMahon. There is optimism that treatment over the coming days will provide a return to play target date.”
The Mavericks have officially termed it a lumbar strain, but a bulging disc is concerning as it could worsen, extending Irving’s absence. The team is hoping for a quick return as they continue to lose games without him. Head coach Jason Kidd addressed the injury before the game, though he had little to add at the time, stating, “He’s out. There’s nothing I can speculate or comment on. As you know, it’s reported that he’s out for a week or two. Give me 48 hours to get that answer for you. I don’t know how. I can give you that answer for you. I don’t know how.”
Since Luka’s Christmas Day injury, the Mavericks have dropped six straight games and are now tied for the No. 6 spot in the Western Conference. Irving has missed three games during this stretch due to illness and minor injuries, but this latest setback will keep him sidelined for the next 5-6 games. The Mavericks have yet to win a game this season without both Luka and Kyrie on the court. However, the team has been 7-3 when Kyrie plays but Luka doesn’t, suggesting they might have remained competitive during Luka’s absence if Kyrie had been more consistent.
Irving, who is averaging 24.3 points, 4.6 rebounds, and 4.9 assists, has been playing at an All-Star level but may struggle in the race for an All-Star spot due to this untimely injury. The Mavericks will need to regain form without their stars, or they may find themselves relying on a late-season push to secure a top-six playoff spot.
The Mavericks suffered another defeat, 104-119, against the Memphis Grizzlies, a team also missing several key players. Additionally, they lost Daniel Gafford to a sprained ankle, compounding their injury troubles. While the Grizzlies are in a better position without their stars, the Mavericks’ ongoing uncompetitive losses are concerning fans. Coach Jason Kidd now faces the challenge of finding a short-term solution to prevent the team from slipping into the Play-In Tournament.
