Kyrie Irving ruled out for season, Cooper Flagg steps into bigger role for Dallas Mavericks
On February 17, 2026, the Dallas Mavericks confirmed that Kyrie Irving will not return this season as he continues recovering from a torn left ACL. The decision ends any speculation about a late comeback and formally shifts the franchise’s short-term direction.The update also changes the developmental arc of rookie forward Cooper Flagg. With Irving ruled out, the Mavericks are leaning fully into youth, giving their No. 1 pick more responsibility...