With their head amply above water at six games over .500, it’s not as if the reigning Western Conference champion Mavericks were in dire need of a lifeguard. But with six defeats in their last eight games,

Mavs star Kyrie Irving confirmed after Tuesday night's loss that he was diagnosed with a bulging disk in his lower back and would have to continue managing the injury.

Jan 12, 2025; Dallas, Texas, USA; Denver Nuggets guard Jamal Murray (27) brings the ball up court against the Dallas Mavericks during the second half at the American Airlines Center. Mandatory Credit: Jerome Miron-Imagn Images / Jerome Miron-Imagn Images