The suddenly-promising vibes for the Dallas Mavericks are only going to get better with Kyrie Irving progressing in his return from a torn ACL.

The Dallas Mavericks are heading into the 2025-26 NBA season with sky-high excitement. After arguably the three worst months in franchise history, during which the franchise took the unpopular decision of trading Luka Doncic, they were handed a billion-dollar lifeboat with Cooper Flagg.

Apr 5, 2025; San Antonio, TX, USA; Duke Blue Devils forward Cooper Flagg (2) reacts after a three point basket against the Houston Cougars during the first half in the semifinals of the men's Final Four of the 2025 NCAA Tournament at the Alamodome. Mandatory Credit: Bob Donnan-Imagn Images / Bob Donnan-Imagn Images