Dallas Mavericks star Kyrie Irving is nearing a return after tearing his ACL in March 2025, with Michael Porter Jr. saying he looked explosive in a recent pickup game. Porter Jr. told the Curious Mike podcast that Irving moved like his old self despite the long layoff, noting his ability to get to the lane and finish with either hand. The Mavericks have not played Irving since the 2024-25 season when he averaged 24.7 points, 4.8 rebounds and 4.6 assists per game while shooting 47.3% from the field. That season ended with Irving earning All-Star honors before the team traded Luka Doncic for Anthony Davis. Now Irving, 34, prepares to play alongside Cooper Flagg, the 19-year-old Rookie of the Year who was drafted first overall in 2025. Dallas Mavericks recently beat the Chicago Bulls 149-128 on April 13, 2026, and are on a two-game winning streak after a 2W-0D-3L stretch in their last five games. Marc Stein reported the Mavericks have refused to include Irving in trade talks despite interest from other teams, wanting to see him develop with Flagg. Stein added rival teams question how long Dallas will hold that stance as the Feb. 11 trade deadline approaches. The Mavericks roster now includes Flagg, Irving, PJ Washington, Dereck Lively, Zaccharie Risacher, Caleb Martin, Santi Aldama and Marcus Sasser, with Morez Johnson Jr. selected ninth in the 2026 NBA Draft. Masai Ujiri was hired as president of basketball operations in May 2026, Mike Schmitz as general manager and Dusty May as new head coach for the upcoming season. Irving’s return could give Dallas one of the most dangerous one-two punches in the league if he stays healthy. Fans can follow the team’s progress on our [stats](/stats) page as the season nears.