With Luka Doncic missing his 10th straight game with a left calf strain and projected to remain out through at least late January, Irving is Dallas’ best chance of remaining afloat in Western Conference amid a roaring rapids stretch of games.

Jan 12, 2025; Dallas, Texas, USA; Denver Nuggets guard Jamal Murray (27) brings the ball up court against the Dallas Mavericks during the second half at the American Airlines Center. Mandatory Credit: Jerome Miron-Imagn Images / Jerome Miron-Imagn Images

Dallas Mavericks star Kyrie Irving returned for Tuesday night's blowout loss to the Denver Nuggets, a game in which center Dereck Lively II exited early due to a right ankle sprain.  Lively exited with 8:04 left in the first quarter and did not return.