Following a chaotic, injury-riddled season, it looked like the Mavs would take several years to recover from the shocking Luka Doncic trade. But fate had other plans. Against all odds, they won the draft lottery and got their hands on Cooper Flagg, giving them a legitimate shot at title contention. However, for that to happen, they would require Kyrie Irving to be completely healthy. Unfortunately, the timeline for his return remains uncertain due to contrasting updates by Nico Harrison and Kyrie.

Well, ‘Uncle Drew’ is expected to miss the majority of next season recovering from a torn ACL in his left knee that he suffered in March. While there is hope for a January return, Nico recently confirmed that the former champ has exceeded expectations in his rehab process and is ahead of schedule. “We kind of knew he would be because of the way he attacks his rehab. He’s going two or three times a day. As much as he wants to rush it, we don’t want him to. But he’s going to be fine,” he said.

Based on Harrison’s update, yes, Kyrie could be back in action sooner than expected. But let’s just say, things aren’t that simple because that’s not what Kai hinted at earlier this month. During a live stream, when Irving was asked if he would be back by the playoffs, he did not seem too hopeful, “Don’t hold your breath on that. It doesn’t mean that I won’t be back… I don’t want to make any predictions on when I’m going to be back. I just want to be back 150,000 percent better.”

For starters, ACL tears typically take around 11 months to be fully healed from, and after receiving his surgery in early April, it only makes sense if Irving returns after the all-star break, despite signs showing that he could return early. Prior to the injury, Kyrie averaged 24.7 points and nearly five assists in fifty appearances last season. Clearly, he wants to return in the same All-Star form, if not better. “I’m taking my time to really get healthy. I’m taking my time to really get my body right, other parts of my body right, and really just enjoy this recovery process, man. It’s not pretty. Yes, it is a beautiful struggle, but I go through the mental rollercoaster ride every day, just want to be back out there,” Irving remarked.

So, even though Nico claimed he is ahead of schedule, Ky is unlikely to be back on the court until he believes he is at his best. But who will be the Mavs’ floor general until he returns?

D’Angelo Russell with a chip on his shoulder as he replaces Kyrie Irving amid recovery

Just because Kyrie will be unavailable for the majority of next season, the Mavs are not letting go of their title aspirations. Realizing the massive void, Nico signed D’Angelo Russell on a two-year $13 million deal. And he is likely to be the Mavs’ primary playmaker for next year, at least until Ky returns from injury.

During his time with the Lakers, D’Lo played a pivotal role in their run to the West Finals two years ago. Although his numbers took a massive hit last season as he was traded to Brooklyn, Russell can still be a key part of a championship-calibre team. Moreover, he believes he functions better under pressure. During his recent vlog, D’Lo told Nico, “I like me with a chip on my shoulder.” And the GM responded, “I like you with a chip on your shoulder.”

The expectations are clear. Russell needs to hold the fort until Kyrie Irving returns so that they can contend for the title with a fully healthy roster. Meanwhile, Irving has already begun developing a bond with Flagg, which could prove crucial to build instant chemistry if he returns mid-season. That said, without a reliable primary creator outside of D’Angelo Russell, Cooper can find himself expected to take on a bigger role. Particularly, when it comes to playmaking and creation within the offense. And no offense, Kai, but the perfect time to do it is while he remains on the bench.

And when Irving does return, aside from the bond, if Flagg can progress within his offensive game, the Duke alum and Dallas have the perfect opportunity to create an offensive powerhouse. The Mavs are clearly treading in the right direction, and with a healthy roster, they can make some serious noise in the West next year. Do you agree?