Mavericks season gets even worse with Kyrie Irving's season-ending injury

Irving took two free throws before leaving the game. Injured forward Anthony Davis, acquired in the trade that sent Doncic to Los Angeles, assisted Irving off the court afterward. 

It was later learned on Tuesday that Irving suffered a season-ending ACL tear in his left knee, per ESPN's Shams Charania. 

Dallas couldn’t afford to lose Irving for an extended period. With Davis (adductor strain) sidelined, Irving is the team’s best player. Even when Davis is healthy, he’s the Mavs’ best playmaker since they traded Doncic. 

The Mavericks (32-30, 10th in the Western Conference) are 6-6 since the infamous Doncic trade. During that stretch, Irving has averaged 28.1 points, 5.8 rebounds, 4.1 assists, 1.8 steals and one block per game.

Dallas appears safe to make the play-in tournament, but that could change, especially with Irving sidelined for the remainder of the season. It’s four games ahead of the Suns (28-33, 11th in Western Conference) for the West’s final play-in tournament spot. 

Phoenix has its issues after forward Kevin Durant said the Suns "embarrassed ourselves" following a 116-98 loss to the Timberwolves (33-29, eighth in Western Conference) on Sunday. However, with the talent on Phoenix's roster, a late-season push can’t be ruled out, especially if the Mavericks crater. Considering their woes, it's feasible. 

Davis and Irving are both battling injuries. Making matters worse, young backup shooting guard Jaden Hardy, who could play significant minutes in the frontcourt depending on Irving's prognosis, appeared to injure his lower right leg. (h/t Afseth)

At this point, Mavericks fans should be numb to the pain. But for those who still haven’t been desensitized, Irving’s injury could strike their last nerve.