The Dallas Mavericks and their troubled days: A never-ending saga. Surely, Luka Doncic’s calf injury wasn’t enough for the Basketball Gods, that they keep throwing in more. Daniel Gafford missed some time due to injury, followed by Kyrie Irving, and now it looks like Kai might miss time again. But, more concerning news is coming from Jason Kidd’s 20-year-old sophomore, Dereck Lively II.

Now, coming to Kyrie Irving had missed five games of basketball action due to a building disc problem. But the light at the end of the tunnel returned as the 32-year-old shooting guard returned to the lineup against the Denver Nuggets on Tuesday. He could chip in 11 points in a game that ultimately resulted in a blowout loss of 99-118 for the Mavs.

Sadly, the Mavericks listed the 2016 NBA champ as questionable for Wednesday’s matchup against the New Orleans Pelicans, according to the latest reports. Kyrie Irving’s lumbar back sprain is turning into an eyesore for the veteran guard. Or maybe the team is trying the infamous load management to give some rest to the star for the back-to-back.

ESPN’s Tim MacMahon reported: “Mavs list Kyrie Irving as doubtful vs. Pelicans. He said last night he hoped to play on the second night of a back-to-back, but he would have to “do [his] best to manage” the pain and complications from having a bulging disc in his back.” Meanwhile, Dereck Lively II’s injury updates could be the most concerning report for the Mavs right now.

Kyrie Irving’s 20YO teammate Dereck Lively II is out for Wednesday

Dallas Mavericks center Dereck Lively II exited Tuesday’s clash against the Denver Nuggets early. A right ankle sprain forced him off the court in the first quarter. This setback could extend his nine-game absence this season. The Mavericks now face the New Orleans Pelicans on Wednesday, likely without their rising star.

NBA insider Chris Haynes reports that Dereck Lively II underwent X-rays for a sprained right ankle, with results coming back negative. A recovery timeline remains uncertain. The injury struck early in the first quarter when Kyrie Irving’s teammate landed awkwardly on Nikola Jokic’s foot. Despite scoring 4 points and delivering a block in his short stint, his game was cut short. Wincing in visible pain, Lively quickly signaled to the bench and exited the court.

All eyes are now on updates, as fans and teammates await word on his return. Meanwhile, the court would await for Kai to return for the game against the Pelicans. Without Doncic, the Mavs have struggled, but Kai, Klay Thompson, and others are holding their ground. But winning more games would be crucial now.