Kyrie Irving ready to return, Shams Charania: “He’s 100% healthy”
Kyrie Irving has fully recovered after his lengthy absence. According to Shams Charania, the Dallas Mavericks are ready to move forward with the former Cavaliers star alongside Cooper Flagg
After missing the entire 2025-26 season because of the torn ACL he suffered in March 2025, Kyrie Irving is finally ready to return to the court.
The long wait for Dallas Mavericks fans is nearly over. According to ESPN insider Shams Charania, who shared an update during an appearance on The Stephen A. Smith Show, the news surrounding the veteran guard’s recovery is extremely encouraging.
From everything I’ve heard, Kyrie Irving’s recovery has gone extremely well. Last season, there was a belief that if the Mavericks had been competing for something meaningful, Kyrie could have pushed to return sometime between December and January. But given how the season unfolded, there was simply no reason for Dallas to rush his recovery
Shams Charania
The ESPN insider then expanded on the organization’s excitement about seeing Cooper Flagg develop under the guidance of the NBA champion.
He’s now 100% healthy and fully involved in the franchise’s plans. He’s already spoken with new head coach Dusty May, new president Masai Ujiri, and general manager Mike Schmitz. Owner Patrick Dumont can’t wait to see the Irving-Cooper Flagg pairing on the floor, believing Kyrie’s leadership will be crucial to the young star’s development
Shams Charania
Dallas’ decision not to rush Irving back during what became a transitional season has proven to be the right one. Without the pressure of chasing a playoff spot, Irving was able to complete his rehabilitation without setbacks, positioning himself to become both a leader and mentor for No. 1 overall pick and reigning Rookie of the Year Cooper Flagg.
Despite the sweeping offseason changes that reshaped both the front office and coaching staff, the Mavericks will begin their new era with a proven veteran who, in his last healthy season (2024-25), averaged 24.7 points, 4.8 rebounds, and 4.6 assists per game while shooting over 40% from three-point range. Under new head coach Dusty May and team president Masai Ujiri, Dallas’ resurgence will largely depend on the chemistry and brilliance of its No. 11 alongside its rising young superstar.