Mavericks’ Kyrie Irving Returns Against Thunder; Dereck Lively II Remains Out
Kyrie Irving returns to the Mavericks’ lineup against the Thunder, while Dereck Lively II remains out with a right ankle sprain. Tip-off: 7:30 p.m. CST.
DALLAS — Kyrie Irving has returned to the Dallas Mavericks’ lineup for Friday’s game against the Oklahoma City Thunder after missing Wednesday’s 119-116 loss against the New Orleans Pelicans. Irving had been sidelined with a lumbar back sprain, which he described as a bulging disc, but the team is optimistic about managing his workload moving forward.
Head coach Jason Kidd confirmed Irving’s availability and mentioned the goal is to keep him in the “33 range” for minutes in his return to the lineup—similar to how long he played against the Denver Nuggets in the 118-99 loss earlier in the week.
Irving has been a key contributor for the Mavericks this season, averaging 23.9 points, 4.8 assists, and 4.5 rebounds over 31 games. In his last appearance, he scored 11 points on 4 of 18 shooting against the Nuggets, acknowledging afterward that he is still working his way back into game shape.
“Tonight really felt like I just hopped off the couch and decided to play an NBA game,” Irving said earlier this week. “There’s nothing like being in an NBA game and just getting rhythm. So I’m grateful my teammates had my back out there.”
Meanwhile, Lively, averaging 9.1 points, 7.8 rebounds, and 2.6 assists in 32 games this season, remains out with a right ankle sprain. He was spotted courtside during pregame workouts but did not participate in on-court activities, as he was seen wearing flip flops.
Kidd had previously expressed hope that Lively could return for Friday’s game, but the Mavericks continue to prioritize his recovery to avoid any setbacks.
Lively suffered the injury after playing just four minutes in a loss to the Nuggets earlier this week. The team has not provided a specific timeline for his return, though the injury is not believed to be a long-term issue.
The Mavericks enter the game with momentum, having lost eight of their previous 10 games. Irving’s return provides a much-needed boost as Dallas looks to maintain its strong positioning in the Western Conference.
Tip-off is set for 7:30 p.m. CST at American Airlines Center.
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