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.

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

A firm recovery timeline hasn’t been set for the 33-year-old guard, who suffered a torn ACL in his left knee on March 3 and underwent surgery about three weeks later. It’s not uncommon for players to take a year or more to recover from ACL tears, although it can vary according to the severity of the injury.