After teammate Dwight Powell fell on Kyrie Irving‘s leg while going against the Portland Trail Blazers at Moda Center, he had to leave the game in the second quarter. Now, Irving is one of the biggest names in the Dallas Mavericks‘ lengthy list of injured players. After the accident, the guard was jetted back to Dallas for a crucial MRI. He was soon diagnosed with just a right heel contusion, which was fortunate, given how severe his injury looked. Now, there’s more fortunate news coming Mavericks fans’ way.

Since the clash against the Trail Blazers on December 8, Irving has graced the court in a limited capacity for Dallas, donning protective gear throughout his appearances. Considering the offensive talent he possesses, and his impeccable ball handling, the Mavericks have felt his absence in the past few games. But good news has broken through the shadows of uncertainty, straight from the reputable NBA insider, Shams Charania.

Kyrie Irving is on the road to recovery

In a recent interview, Charania revealed, “[Irving has] been in a boot and crutches since [the incident with Dwight Powell]. I’m told he is now out of the boot; he’s out of the crutches. He has started his rehab process for his return.” The update signals a significant step forward in Kyrie’s comeback journey from his heel contusion. The player is officially unshackled and ready to dive into the recovery process.

With Luka Doncic out with a left quad injury as well, the Mavericks need their star players back on the court as soon as possible. “The Mavericks need Kyrie Irving. They need Luka Doncic. They need them both to be 100%. Them being 100% is going to give them any chance in the world to get by the first round of Playoffs or make any type of noise come the Playoff time,” added Charania.

While the NBA insider maintained suspense regarding the exact timeline for Kyrie Irving’s return to action, he shared that the Mavericks will adopt a patient approach. “They’re going to be patient when it comes to Kyrie Irving, but the good news is now he has started his rehab process.” Throughout the 2023 season, Kyrie Irving has been averaging 23 points, 5.2 assists, and 3.9 rebounds. He has played 17 games so far, resulting in 10 wins for the squad.

It’s no secret that Kyrie Irving is crucial to the Mavericks’ success. With him injured, the team from Dallas has struggled. He’s one of those players who brings the team together. Seeing as he’s missed almost six games entirely, his return is highly anticipated. But just how much of an impact has the star guard had on his team?

Kyrie Irving: The cornerstone of the Mavs’ roster

The Mavericks’ journey without Kyrie Irving reveals a nuanced tale, making it a struggle on the court. In his absence during December, they stand on a 3-3 record. Their three wins came against a struggling Lakers, an under-manned Grizzlies, and a still-adjusting Blazers. Furthermore, when talking about battling against top-tier teams and those who have found their stride, the Mavs have been the opposite of what they have showcased all season long.

Irving’s impending return adds a layer of significance to this narrative. Even though he is not showcasing huge numbers regularly, his influence on his team is evident. Kyrie Irving injects a much-needed boost into the Mavericks’ gameplay.

Read More – “Man of the People”: Kyrie Irving Touches Hearts in Dallas With Moving Initiative Amid Injury Woes

Rewind to the pre-Kyrie era. Whenever Luka Doncic took a breather, opponents capitalized on the vulnerability of the Mavs’ roster, resulting in numerous losses last season. With Kyrie Irving back in the lineup, the offensive charge will be fortified, providing Luka Doncic with a crucial All-Star caliber partner on the court.

What are your thoughts on the Mavericks’ performance with and without Irving on the hardwood? Let us know your thoughts in the comments!

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