Kyrie Irving returned to game action for the first time in 586 days, delivering a dazzling performance in the Dallas Mavericks' 132-115 preseason win over the Houston Rockets in Macao, China. The eight-time All-Star caught the opening possession on the right wing and drove past Jabari Smith Jr. for a reverse layup, thrilling the sellout crowd at the Venetian Arena. Irving finished with 17 points on 6-of-13 shooting in 22 minutes, also contributing three assists.
Irving's return marked his first game since tearing the ACL in his left knee on March 3, 2025. He revealed this week that a Grade 2 calf strain in December interrupted his rehabilitation, factoring into the decision to rule him out for last season after the All-Star break. "A lot of emotions leading into it," Irving said. "Grateful that Dusty [May] called the first play for me. Had my mind made up just to attack."
Mavericks coach Jason Kidd praised Irving's conditioning, noting it was a testament to his work ethic. Rockets coach Ime Udoka added, "He's back to being who he is. He'll only get better as he gets his rhythm back in real NBA games."
The 34-year-old also shared the court with rookie sensation Cooper Flagg, with the duo connecting on a full-court pass for a transition layup. Irving sat out the preseason opener as part of the team's plan to ease him back into action.
Source: ESPN NBA · Summarized by HeadlinesBriefing