The Dallas Mavericks are back in action Wednesday when they host the Utah Jazz at 8:30 p.m. ET. The Mavericks are on a two-game losing streak and hope to end their misery against Utah. They’ll also be looking to get star guard Kyrie Irving back in the lineup after he missed the last game with foot soreness. Here’s the latest on Irving’s status for Wednesday’s contest.
Kyrie Irving injury updates
Update: The Mavericks aren’t going to play games with the injury report here, and have listed Irving as available for tonight’s contest.
Irving has been listed as questionable, but he’s expected to suit up. The Mavericks were likely just resting him on the second night of a back-to-back set, as they’ve previously done with the point guard. Irving has been an impactful player for the Mavericks, especially offensively. According to basketball-reference.com, the team is +5.6 in offensive rating with Irving on the floor vs. off it. Dallas sees a net gain in offensive rating of +2.9, since opponents are better offensively with Irving on the floor. For now, the point guard’s offense is making up for his defensive lapses.
If Irving is unable to suit up, Luka Doncic will be the primary offensive initiator and creator for Dallas. Doncic has been putting up MVP-like numbers this season and would be worth backing on most of his player props, including potentially looking at him recording a triple-double. Tim Hardaway Jr. and Dante Exum could also see more playing time if Irving sits out.