The Success Secret
Ad
Uncover Secrets Billionaires Don't Want You To Know. Watch Now!
Kyrie Irving’s ACL tear has effectively ended the Dallas Mavericks’ championship aspirations this NBA season. Both the team and their fans had been holding onto a sliver of hope, only for it to be dashed by Irving’s devastating injury.
Irving, along with an injured Anthony Davis, could have at least led the Mavericks to a promising playoff run. However, with Luka Dončić having been traded to the Los Angeles Lakers for Davis, the team was already in a precarious situation, searching for someone to support Irving on the court.
NBA legend Shaquille O’Neal, however, has a plan to get the Mavericks back into contention — but it all hinges on their 2025-26 season.
Shaquille O’Neal Has a Plan for Dallas Mavericks After Kyrie Irving’s ACL Tear
Though the Mavericks might have lost a chance to win this year, the team can still turn it around next season.
Well, that’s what O’Neal thinks.
While on ‘NBA on TNT,’ the four-time NBA champion sympathized with Irving’s ‘freak’ injury, also laying down the Mavs’ next moves.
“Worst type of injury is a freak injury. Of course, he’s in shape. He’s playing one of the best best balls ever,” O’Neal said. “And a freak injury like that puts him out for the season. I feel for Kyrie. Dallas still had a chance with a healthy him. A healthy AD. Now, they don’t have a shot.” Speaking of their next season, O’Neal added: “I think Dallas organization need to go the Joel Embiid route. Shut AD down also. Get ready for next year.” The NBA legend is aware of how trades and big moves work, highlighting a possible two to three-season window where one can focus on winning a championship. “And they have no shot at winning a championship without Kyrie,” O’Neal explained. “And without a healthy AD. If I was Nico [Harrison, Mavericks GM] and those guys, I’d just shut AD down. Work them out hard this summer and come back next year.” Though O’Neal might have practical advice, the Mavericks might need some time to fine-tune their strategy this year.
NBA World Was Heartbroken for Irving After Season-Ending Injury
Along with O’Neal, other members of the NBA world also remain hopeful of Irving’s return, which includes Dončić, his teammate for two seasons.
Dončić shared a photo on Instagram with Irving as he added: “You will come back stronger mi hermano.”
Miami Heat star Kevin Love, former player and analyst Kendrick Perkins, and Philadelphia 76ers guard Quentin Grimes are a few others who showed their support.
Irving, before his injury, was averaging 24.7 points, 4.8 rebounds, and 4.6 assists during the 2024-2025 NBA season.
