LeBron James Sends Strong Message to Kyrie Irving After Injury.
The Dallas Mavericks suffered a tough setback during their 122-98 defeat to the Sacramento Kings on Monday night, as Kyrie Irving exited the game due to a troubling left knee sprain in the first quarter.
Irving’s knee gave way while driving to the basket, causing him to collapse in significant pain. After making both of his free throws, he was assisted off the court by injured center Anthony Davis and a Mavericks staff member, as he limped to the sideline.
There’s growing concern in the NBA for Irving, who has been performing exceptionally well in his 2024-25 season with the Mavericks.
LeBron James, Irving’s former Cleveland Cavaliers teammate, shared a message of support on social media after the injury scare.
“Prayers sent up to Ky,” James posted on X.
Irving is averaging 25.0 points, 4.9 rebounds, and 4.7 assists per game across 49 appearances with the Mavericks this season. In a February 25 loss to James, Luka Doncic, and the Los Angeles Lakers, the Dallas guard tallied a game-high 35 points.
“Just unlucky. I hope that he’s healthy and it’s not serious,” Mavericks head coach Jason Kidd said about Irving’s injury following the game. “With the injuries we’ve had this season, players are doing their best to hold it together and get others back. It feels like every time we’re close to getting someone back, another player goes down. We’re running low on bodies, but the team keeps fighting.”
The Mavericks will face the Milwaukee Bucks in their next game on Wednesday night. Meanwhile, James and the Lakers will aim to keep their strong 2024-25 season going with a matchup against the New Orleans Pelicans on Tuesday.