Kyrie Irving’s days with the Dallas Mavericks may be numbered, according to NBA insider Marc Stein. In his Substack report on Monday, Stein wrote that the Mavericks could entertain trade offers for the nine-time All-Star as the February trade deadline approaches.
Irving missed the 2025-26 season after tearing his left ACL. He remained involved with the team throughout the season, however, and notably took rookie sensation Cooper Flagg under his wing. While Irving is expected to be healthy next season, his long-term future in Dallas may not be as certain, prompting widespread speculation.
NBA World Split Over Kyrie Irving’s Future As Fans Float Possible Landing SpotsThe age gap between Irving, 34, and Flagg, 19, could be another factor in Dallas’ thinking, per “The Stein Line.” With the Mavericks seemingly committed to building around the 2026 Rookie of the Year, the team could look to maximize Irving’s value while it still can.
Irving has a $42.4 million player option after the 2026-27 season. If he declines it, Dallas could lose him without receiving anything in return. That could make a trade worth considering if the Mavericks receive the kind of package they believe can accelerate their rebuild around Flagg.
Stein stressed that Dallas has previously turned down trade discussions involving Irving. His latest report, however, suggested the Mavericks could reconsider if the right offer comes along. That possibility quickly sent NBA observers into speculation mode.
“Kyrie Irving, future Heatle,” a Miami Heat supporter predicted.
“Bring him to the Warriors,” a Golden State Warriors supporter implored.
“Send Kyrie to Houston for young players and picks, and let him and [Kevin Durant] finish what they started in Brooklyn. Rockets got the next few Nets picks too,” an NBA observer weighed in.
“Future teammates soon,” a Phoenix Suns supporter captioned a photo of Irving and Devin Booker.
“C’mon Miami, make the call,” Prize Picks posted.
“I know a place where Kyrie is wanted,” another Heat supporter wrote.
“Future Raptor,” a Toronto Raptors supporter joined the discussion.
“Masai [Ujiri] not giving Kyrie up, ESPECIALLY for cheap. That offer would have to be insane for him to make a move,” an NBA observer pushed back.
Miami has become a popular destination in fan speculation because of the star power being assembled by Pat Riley. Irving’s former Mavericks teammate Klay Thompson is now in South Beach alongside Giannis Antetokounmpo, Bam Adebayo, and Andrew Wiggins.
There is also a straightforward basketball reason why Irving would generate this much interest. Over his career, the veteran guard has averaged 23.7 points, 4.1 rebounds, 5.6 assists, and 1.3 steals per game while shooting 47.4%, including 39.4% from 3-point range.
If Irving returns to full strength, he remains capable of changing the outlook of a playoff team. For Dallas, the question is whether that value is better used alongside Flagg or turned into assets for the franchise’s next phase.
For now, there is no indication that the Mavericks are actively shopping Irving. But Stein’s report has opened the door to a possibility that seemed far less likely before.
This article originally appeared on Pro Football Network.
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