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Not one Dallas Mavericks fan would have thought their team would struggle to make the Playoffs after acquiring Kyrie Irving.
The Mavericks have been on a rocky road this NBA season, failing to meet the lofty expectations set for them at the start of the year. Despite a talented roster, they have struggled to find their rhythm and secure crucial victories, leaving their postseason dreams in jeopardy. Luka Doncic was expected to be a strong MVP candidate, but consistent injury troubles have made that impossible.
On Wednesday, the Mavs lost to the Philadelphia 76ers, putting them out of play-in tournament eligibility and leaving them in the No. 11 spot. They now face the Miami Heat, who have had their own injury issues but have managed to maintain a 40-37 record. With only five games left in the season, Dallas must secure a win against Miami to keep their postseason pursuit alive.
Kyrie Irving has started 17 games thus far and has been in decent form, averaging almost 19 points and more than five assists in his last five appearances. According to the official injury report, Irving is set to get his 18th start for the Dallas Mavericks and will be available to play against the Miami Heat.
Dallas Mavericks at risk of missing the postseason despite Kyrie Irving's presence
The Kyrie Irving trade was expected to provide the Dallas Mavericks with the impetus for a potential title charge. However, fans are yet to see the best of Irving, who already appears to be looking for his next team. Luka Doncic has also been injured recently, which has made them easy opponents for the time being.
Currently in the 11th spot, they have lost 10 of their last 15 games and are on a downward spiral despite Doncic’s return. Since the Slovenian international returned from his injury, the team has lost four of their last five games, which has led to rumors of head coach Jason Kidd being fired.
The team is still backing Kidd, with general manager Nico Harrison recently saying that he is still the right man for the job. Regardless, time is running out for Luka Doncic and Kyrie Irving, and the latter is already linked with a free agency move away from the Mavs.
A number of teams will jump at the chance to sign Irving, and their latest opponents, the Miami Heat, are one of them. For the Mavericks, things have not gone according to plan since they signed Irving and the next few games may as well decide multiple futures within the organization.
Guess the Lakers players!
