Kyrie Irving Injury Update as Shorthanded Mavericks Face Hawks
The Dallas Mavericks (9-8) received welcome news ahead of Monday night’s road matchup against the Atlanta Hawks (7-10): Kyrie Irving has been cleared to play despite being listed on the earlier injury report with an illness. Irving’s availability is critical for a Mavericks team navigating a challenging stretch without several key players.
Irving showcased his offensive firepower in Sunday’s 123-118 overtime loss to the Miami Heat, tallying 27 points, six assists, and four rebounds in 39 minutes. His presence becomes even more crucial with superstar Luka Doncic missing his third straight game due to a right wrist sprain.
Nov 10, 2024; Denver, Colorado, USA; Dallas Mavericks guard Kyrie Irving (11) prepares to shoot the ball in the fourth quarter against the Denver Nuggets at Ball Arena. Mandatory Credit: Ron Chenoy-Imagn Images
© Ron Chenoy-Imagn Images
The Mavericks' injury woes deepen further as Klay Thompson (left foot plantar fascia) and Quentin Grimes (illness) have been ruled out for Monday’s game. Both played significant roles in the Miami loss, leaving head coach Jason Kidd to reconfigure his rotation on short notice. Additionally, Dante Exum remains sidelined following wrist surgery that has kept him out all season.
With the absences piling up, Kidd is expected to start Irving alongside either Jaden Hardy or Spencer Dinwiddie in the backcourt. Naji Marshall will likely step into Thompson’s role at forward, with PJ Washington and Dereck Lively rounding out the starting five.
The Mavericks face a formidable challenge against a Hawks team known for its high-powered offense, ranked in the NBA’s top 10. Irving will need to take on an even greater role in orchestrating the offense and shouldering the scoring load, especially with Dallas on the second night of a road back-to-back.
Sunday’s overtime loss highlighted both the team’s resilience and its vulnerabilities. Dallas led late but couldn’t close the deal, underscoring the difficulty of competing without Doncic’s playmaking and scoring prowess.
Despite their depleted roster, the Mavericks have demonstrated grit throughout the season. Monday’s game is an opportunity to bounce back and maintain momentum in a crowded Western Conference race.
