Kyrie Irving has sustained a significant injury, tearing the ACL in his left knee, which will sideline him for the rest of the season.
The injury occurred during Monday’s game, dealing a major blow to both Irving and the Dallas Mavericks.
Irving was having an impressive season, earning an All-Star selection while playing in 50 of the Mavericks’ 62 games.
Throughout the season, he maintained strong performances, averaging 24.7 points, 4.8 rebounds, and 4.6 assists per game, with an efficient 40.1 percent shooting accuracy from beyond the arc.
Before suffering this injury, Irving was widely expected to decline his $43.96 million player option for the 2025-26 season and enter free agency, to remain in Dallas on a long-term deal.
However, his injury now presents a significant decision regarding his contract. He could choose to opt into the final year of his current contract and then negotiate a four-year extension valued at up to $266.7 million.
Alternatively, he has the option to decline the player option and pursue a new five-year contract worth as much as $313.9 million.
The Mavericks originally acquired Irving at the 2023 trade deadline in a move to bolster their roster. Following the trade, he signed a three-year, $126 million contract in free agency, which included a player option for the third season.
Irving, who is represented by agent Shetellia Riley, will turn 33 in just a few weeks, adding another layer of complexity to his future contract negotiations and recovery timeline.
Kyrie Irving Out For Season With Torn ACL In Left Knee https://t.co/WrqgyL6XYT
— RealGM (@RealGM) March 4, 2025
