In the latest brutal blow to the Dallas Mavericks, Kyrie Irving is done of the season.
Irving, who was in the middle of an All-Star season, injured his left knee in the first half of Monday night’s 122-98 loss to the Sacramento Kings. The injury appeared serious in the moment, and on Tuesday morning, ESPN insider Shams Charania reported the bad news. Irving tore his ACL, sidelining him for the rest of the year.
It’s tough to sum up how bad things have been for Mavericks fans since the Luka Doncic trade on Feb. 2. Not only has Doncic gone on to be his usual brilliant self for the Los Angeles Lakers, but Anthony Davis, the main return piece in the deal, is out with an injury.
Now, Kyrie is done, and fans and media members are trying to take in how awful Dallas’ luck has been while also considering the ramifications for the standout point guard’s career.
“Oh hell no.. Haven’t the Mavs’ fans been tortured enough? And coming back from a torn ACL (especially with his game) is extremely difficult for a 33 year old. Kyrie has been such an awesome story (and player) these past two seasons. Devastating..” said basketball coach Kristian Palotie.
“Luka trade really might be the worst in sports history when factoring in the subsequent bad luck,” added Chris Vannini of The Athletic.
“Didn’t think I’d ever feel too bad for this Mavericks team but good lord what a month for these fans,” chimed in Julian Edlow of DraftKings.
“So cool. Worst case scenario keeps finding more lows,” a Mavs fan added.
“Ruined my day,” chimed in a Cavaliers fan.
In 50 games this season, Irving averaged 24.7 points, 4.8 rebounds and 4.6 assists while posting a 47-40-92 shooting percentage line.
The former No. 1 overall pick turns 33 on March 23, so this type of injury could definitely be career-altering.
Oh, by the way, the Mavericks also announced they are raising ticket prices next season. Tough times in Big D.
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