Kings Defeat Mavericks in Blowout as Kyrie Irving Suffers Season-Ending ACL Tear
Kyrie Irving's season-ending ACL tear overshadows Dallas Mavericks' 122-98 loss to Sacramento Kings, deepening the team's challenges for playoff contention.
The uphill battle the Dallas Mavericks (32-30) face this season faced another steep climb Monday as Kyrie Irving suffered a season-ending ACL tear in their 122-98 defeat against the Sacramento Kings (32-28). Irving suffered the injury late in the first quarter and did not return after making two free throws while in visible distress.
The game took a decisive turn after Kyrie Irving sustained a season-ending ACL tear late in the first quarter. The Mavericks were competitive until Irving's exit, but his departure visibly deflated the team. The Kings, led by Zach LaVine and DeMar DeRozan, capitalized on this shift, ramping up their aggression on both ends. By halftime, Sacramento had extended its lead to 57-48.
Irving's injury occurred as he drove toward the basket, appearing to misstep before collapsing near the baseline. The game paused as Mavericks personnel and teammates rushed to his aid. Irving shot his two free throws despite his injury, making both before being helped off the court—resembling what his mentor, Kobe Bryant, famously did after suffering a torn Achilles in 2013.
In the third quarter, the Kings dominated, embarking on a 21-2 run that showcased their offensive firepower and defensive prowess. This surge widened their lead from nine to 29 points, sealing the victory before the final quarter. Dallas attempted to regroup and counter, but the absence of Irving and other key players left them struggling to keep pace.
"It's just unlucky," Mavericks coach Jason Kidd said regarding the injury. "We hope that he's healthy and it’s not serious, but it seems every time we get close to getting someone back, someone else goes down."
Dallas struggled to find rhythm without Irving, who averaged 24.7 points, 4.8 rebounds, and 4.6 assists this season. The Mavericks trailed the Kings throughout the game. Sacramento took control in the third quarter, stretching a nine-point lead to 29, leaving the Mavericks scrambling defensively and unable to recover.
The injury adds to the Mavericks' growing list of sidelined players, including Dereck Lively II, Daniel Gafford, Anthony Davis, and P.J. Washington. The team hopes for the return of newly acquired Caleb Martin, but the constant injuries have taken a toll.
"It sucks that we keep losing guys," Marshall said. "But everybody's trying to stay positive. We just hope he gets better. That’s our leader, our guy."
The Mavericks did receive a strong debut from Kai Jones, who signed a two-way contract hours before the game. Jones finished with 21 points and 8 rebounds, showing his impressive above-the-rim finishing and impact in the paint.
“ He was really good,” Kidd said of Jones. “Both being able to score, run the floor, and rebound for us in the 30 minutes that he played.”
Dallas received 23 combined points from its starters, including Irving, who finished with 7 points before his night ended after 9 minutes. Klay Thompson was held to 3 points on 1 of 4 (25%) shooting overall in 25 minutes. Kessler Edwards contributed 6 points, 4 rebounds, and 4 assists. Dwight Powell played only 10 minutes despite starting and logged 2 points and 2 rebounds. It wasn’t nearly enough production all around.
The Mavericks had four double-figure scorers off the bench. Naji Marshall added 18 points and 6 rebounds, while Spencer Dinwiddie and Max Christie were each held to 10 points. Regardless, Dallas was plagued by shooting 7 of 26 (26.9%) from deep compared to Sacramento shooting at a 16 of 34 (47.1%) clip.
“No matter what situation in, losing Kai, you’re going to switch some things up,” Marshall said. “We tried to play faster. We’re down a lot of guys right now. We still got to do our jobs and go out there and hoop.”
Despite not having Domantas Sabonis available due to injury, the Kings received strong performances from each of their starters. LaVine totaled 22 points, 3 rebounds, and 2 assists. DeRozan added 20 points and 4 assists. Keegan Murray chipped in 18 points and 5 rebounds. Jonas Valančiūnas totaled 14 points, 9 rebounds, and 2 blocks, while Malik Monk added 13 points and 8 assists.
The Kings capitalized on the Mavericks' misfortune, and their aggressive play extended their season advantage to 3-0 against Dallas. The Mavericks must rally to maintain their playoff hopes ranked 10th in the Western Conference.
"Rest," was Kidd's message to his team postgame. "Just rest. And we got to stick together, keep fighting. And keep getting better at your job, and that’s what we’re going to do."
The Mavericks will attempt to bounce back on Wednesday night when they face the Milwaukee Bucks for a one-game road stop at Fiserv Forum.
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