Kyrie Irving will remain with the Dallas Mavericks because he has a huge goal in mind.
Despite a devastating injury earlier this season, Kyrie Irving’s future with the Dallas Mavericks is absolutely clear.
The All-Star point guard signed a three-year, $119 million contract extension after turning down his player option.
Despite orchestrating Luka Doncic’s controversial trade, Mavericks GM Nico Harrison has earned Kyrie Irving’s trust, as he looks to construct a championship contender once again.
And that is one of the big reasons Irving put pen to paper on a new contract, as he looks to reach the top of the mountain once again.
Shams Charania appeared on ESPN to discuss Kyrie Irving’s decision to re-sign with the Dallas Mavericks this week.
Repeating what Irving told him, Shams mentioned the player’s desire to establish a legacy in Dallas, compete for a championship with Anthony Davis and Cooper Flagg, along with his trust in the organization, as factors behind the decision to re-sign.
“I spoke to Kyrie Irving just a few moments ago. He told me his decision to return and stay in Dallas was largely based on commitment.
“Not only from him, but the Mavericks as well, and wanting to build a real legacy in Dallas. Even more than that, his belief in this team’s ability, when he is healthy and whole again.
“Potentially in January-February, and beyond over the next three years to compete for a championship around him, Anthony Davis, and soon-to-be #1 overall pick Cooper Flagg. And the leadership there – Jason Kidd, Nico Harrison, and former owner Mark Cuban.”
Irving has spoken highly of Flagg’s potential and how he expects him to perform. In a way, Irving echoed the sentiment of former Mavericks star Derek Harper, who believes Flagg’s success will depend on Irving and Anthony Davis.
Shams also spoke about financial benefits for both sides after this contract. Irving choosing to accept a paycut allows Nico Harrison to use the mid-level exception to sign a backup point guard.
He mentioned D’Angelo Russell and Malcolm Brogdon as potential candidates.
“This was a beneficial deal for both sides. The numbers he is signing for allows the Mavericks to have the taxpayer mid-level exception (MLE).
“Why is that important? It’s important because they need to find a point guard that they can bring in that can play as a starter while Kyrie Irving is out.
“I’m told two names to keep an eye on are D’Angelo Russell and Malcolm Brogdon. Kyrie Irving is there for the long haul. There were some settlements made to allow the Mavericks some flexibility. We’ll see what they do over the next couple of weeks.”
Both Russell and Brogdon have shown they are adequate backup guards who can start when needed and put points on the board.
Nico Harrison will have to make a decision about which point guard to sign. However, tonight, his priority is adding Cooper Flagg to the Mavericks with the #1 pick in the 2025 NBA Draft.
