Following a season-ending ACL tear suffered by Kyrie Irving during a game against the Sacramento Kings, Luka Dončić offered words of encouragement to his former Dallas Mavericks teammate. Irving's injury significantly impacts the Mavericks' playoff aspirations.

Dončić shared a photo on Instagram of himself and Irving embracing, accompanied by the message, "You will come back stronger mi hermano!" This gesture of support highlights the continued friendship between the two players despite Irving's recent trade to the Los Angeles Lakers.

Dončić and Irving formed a powerful offensive combination during their time together in Dallas, even reaching the NBA Finals in the 2023-24 season. During their shared tenure, Dončić averaged 28.9 points per game, while Irving contributed 22.1 points.

The two players recently faced off as opponents for the first time since the trade, with Dončić recording a triple-double (19 points, 15 rebounds, and 12 assists) in a Lakers victory. Irving led the Mavericks with 35 points in the loss.

While a rematch between the Mavericks and Lakers is scheduled for April 9th, Irving's injury prevents him from participating. His return to the court is not expected until the 2025-26 season.

A nine-time All-Star, three-time All-NBA selection, and an NBA champion with the Cleveland Cavaliers in 2016, Irving averaged 24.7 points, 4.6 assists, and 4.8 rebounds in 50 games for the Mavericks this season.