Kyrie Irving, star of the Dallas Mavericks, faced a setback during the game against the Sacramento Kings on Monday when he injured his left knee while attempting a Euro step. He collapsed on the court and was promptly assisted by injured forward Anthony Davis to the locker room. However, Irving made a surprising return to shoot two free throws, successfully converting both to narrow the score to 23-18 before being escorted off the court.

Irving’s average of 25 points and 4.7 assists per game makes his health critical to the Mavericks, especially after they traded superstar Luka Doncic to the Los Angeles Lakers, elevating his role as their sole perimeter shot creator.

The Mavericks sit at 32-29, holding the 10th spot in the Western Conference, which is essential for the Play-In Tournament. The implications of Irving’s injury could significantly affect the playoff race as the Kings (31-28) challenge them for a position.