Dallas Mavericks star Kyrie Irving is in a walking boot and using crutches for his right foot injury, and there is not a timeline for his return, head coach Jason Kidd told reporters on Tuesday prior to the team's game against the Los Angeles Lakers.
Irving was injured during the team's win over the Portland Trail Blazers on Dec. 8 and has not played since. While Irving was in "significant pain" in the initial aftermath, ESPN's Tim MacMahon reported that he avoided a serious injury and was diagnosed with a bruise.
Late in the second quarter against the Trail Blazers, Irving drove into the paint and was crunched by two defenders. He appeared to land awkwardly on his left foot, but the injury actually occurred when his teammate, Dwight Powell, fell onto his right foot. You can see Irving grabbing at his right foot at the very end of this clip:
Irving took to social media to issue his own update on Dec. 9:
"To my Tribe and Family Members: I appreciate all of the prayers, well -wishes, and messages," Irving wrote. "The unconditional Love shown from you all is truly appreciated. I am feeling better than I was yesterday and for now, that's all I can ask for. I'll be fine. Chief Hélà"
The injury-prone Irving has not played more than 60 games since the 2018-19 season when he was still with the Boston Celtics, but had largely been healthy since arriving in Dallas at the trade deadline last season. Through 17 games, he is averaging 23 points, 3.9 rebounds and 5.2 assists on 47.1% shooting.
