The Dallas Mavericks have a big decision to make in regards to Kyrie Irving's contract this offseason. The All-Star point guard may decline his player option to become an unrestricted free agent this summer, but a torn ACL changed things for the former No. 1 overall pick.

Typically, an ACL surgery requires eight-12 months of recovery, but the Mavericks are hoping that Irving will be back on the shorter end of his recovery. ESPN's Shams Charania reports Dallas has hopes that Irving will be able to return by January of 2026, which would allow him to potentially play in the majority of the 2025-26 season.

The nine-time All-Star Irving, now 33 years old, tore the ACL in his left knee during a game against the Sacramento Kings in early March ( video here ). ACL tears are generally 10-12 month injuries, so Irving may end up on the early end of that timeline if all goes according to plan.