The Dallas Mavericks have had a crazy few months, but their next few months could hinge on one critical decision.
The Mavericks have struggled to find success since shockingly trading Luka Doncic in February. However, with the No. 1 pick heading to Dallas, a frontcourt of Cooper Flagg and Anthony Davis provides some serious optimism.
Although there is still a possibility that Kyrie Irving finds a new team this offseason, all signs point to the 2016 champion staying in Dallas this summer. While that is great news for the Mavericks, how Irving plays out his summer could be the biggest factor in Dallas’ ability to contend over the next couple of seasons.
Currently, Irving is looking at a $42.9 million player option for next season. Irving must decide whether to opt in or out over the next couple of weeks, which is where the tricky situation comes in.
Should Irving opt out to ensure a long-term deal as he enters his 15th season, the structure of that deal will likely determine how the Mavericks operate throughout the remainder of the offseason. If Irving doesn’t want to take a pay cut, the Mavericks will be looking at limited financial flexibility going into 2025-26.
However, if Irving takes a pay cut, it could open up many possibilities for the Mavericks, including a potential deal for another backcourt star. The Mavericks have been linked as a potential suitor for Jrue Holiday, and making the money work in that deal would be much easier if Irving decided to leave some money on the table.
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Coming off a torn ACL, Irving is set to miss a chunk of next season, which could be even more reason for Dallas to trade for Holiday or another star in the backcourt. While many players wouldn’t be enthusiastic about taking a pay cut, the pitch to Irving should be quite simple.
To be a contender next season, the Mavericks will need to navigate months without Irving on the floor, and bringing in a veteran champion who can hold down the point guard spot would put Dallas in a much better position when Irving returns.