Kyrie Irving closing in on return, Porter Jr: “He’s the same Kyrie”
A year after his injury, Kyrie Irving is back dazzling on the court. Michael Porter Jr. shares his thoughts after a recent workout with the Mavericks star
After missing the entire 2025-26 season because of a torn ACL in his left knee suffered in March 2025, Kyrie Irving appears to be finally closing in on his return to the court. At 34 years old, the Dallas Mavericks veteran is training at a high intensity to get back into peak form ahead of the new season.
Adding to the excitement surrounding the Mavs star were the words of Michael Porter Jr.. The Brooklyn Nets forward revealed on his podcast that he played in a pickup game with Irving, and was blown away by his movement on the court:
I played with him just yesterday, and he’s coming off a torn ACL. He was so smooth, I couldn’t believe how he was moving out there. He was attacking the paint against the bigs and even finishing with his left hand. It was crazy, truly unbelievable
Michael Porter Jr.
The future in Dallas and a mentor for Cooper Flagg
Irving’s rehabilitation has been long and meticulous, specifically designed to allow him to return without rushing the process. Before the injury, he was putting up All-Star-caliber numbers, averaging 24.7 points, 4.8 rebounds and 4.6 assists.
With the Mavericks beginning their rebuild, led by Cooper Flagg (Rookie of the Year), Irving’s role will be crucial.
The question is whether Dallas’ front office will decide to keep him long term as an experienced leader in the locker room or look to move him in a trade to a title contender. For now, the only certainty is that Kyrie’s talent and magic are ready to dazzle the league once again.