NBA Notes: Mavericks, Kyrie Irving, 76ers, Nets, Drew Timme

Mavericks guard Kyrie Irving is making good progress in his recovery from a torn ACL and is ahead of schedule, according to general manager Nico Harrison.

“Kyrie’s ahead of schedule, but we kind of knew he would be because of the way he attacks his rehab,” Harrison said, via the Dallas Hoops Journal’s Grant Afseth. “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.”

While no official return date has been set, the expectation is that Irving will rejoin the lineup sometime after the New Year. In the meantime, Dallas brought in D’Angelo Russell to handle the backcourt alongside Klay Thompson and others.

Irving signed a three-year, $119 million contract this month that includes a player option.

76ers may adjust after George surgery

Sixers forward Paul George had surgery Monday after suffering a left knee injury during a workout — and while the procedure was considered minor, his status could influence how Philadelphia finalizes the roster.

According to The Athletic’s Tony Jones, the Sixers may now look to secure restricted free agent Quentin Grimes, who can offer depth at either wing spot. George’s recovery could also solidify Kelly Oubre Jr. as a member of the starting lineup and increase the importance of Trendon Watford, who is currently the team’s only natural power forward on a standard contract.

For the record, reports say George should be ready for the start of training camp.

Timme fighting for a spot in Brooklyn

The Nets need to trim their roster before the start of the regular season, and on paper, big man Drew Timme appears to be on the bubble. But the former Gonzaga star is making things interesting.

Timme has impressed in Summer League play, averaging 26 points and 7 rebounds across two games. Although he’s on a non-guaranteed deal, he says he’s embracing the fight to make the team, according to Brian Lewis of the New York Post.

“I mean, it’s great and I love it, but I’m fighting,” Timme said. “I’m competing. I want to stay here. I think I belong here, and I’ve got to prove it every single day that I do belong here. So it’s all about just fighting that battle every single day. And I like it. I like being the underdog. I like having to force my way into a situation. So, it’s fun.”

Either way, with roster spots at a premium, Timme is making a strong case to stay in the mix.