In a video clip where Russell can be seen talking to Mavericks general manager Nico Harrison, the former lottery pick is already setting the mindset for next season, as he'll enter with something to prove to the rest of the league. "I like me with a chip on my shoulder," Russell told Harrison.

Irving, who already underwent successful surgery shortly after, has endured multiple significant knee injuries and procedures throughout his career, one in 2015 after fracturing his kneecap during the NBA Finals, and another in 2018 to remove screws in the same knee.

If Mavericks fans were hoping to see Kyrie Irving back for the playoffs in 2026, they might have to keep waiting.