Multiple NBA contenders are actively monitoring the availability of Dallas Mavericks guard Kyrie Irving following a series of major organizational changes in Dallas, including the firing of head coach Jason Kidd on Tuesday.
The Mavericks are reshaping their franchise around 19-year-old rookie of the year Cooper Flagg under the direction of new team president Masai Ujiri, who took over basketball operations after general manager Nico Harrison was dismissed in November.
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Irving, a 34-year-old nine-time All-Star, has one guaranteed year remaining on his contract worth $39.5 million for the 2026-27 season, followed by a $42 million player option for the 2027-28 season.
The veteran point guard missed the entire 2025-26 regular season while recovering from a torn ACL, meaning he has yet to share the court with Flagg, who averaged 21 points, 6.7 rebounds, and 4.5 assists during his rookie campaign.
Ujiri's Vision for the Future
Addressing reporters on Wednesday following Kidd's dismissal, Ujiri expressed interest in evaluating how the veteran guard meshes with the newly drafted cornerstone player before making long-term roster decisions.
"Kevin Durant once told me that there's only one Kyrie walking around in the world," said Ujiri.
The newly appointed executive elaborated on his ongoing discussions with the veteran guard regarding his placement in the rebuilt team culture.
"I think we have to figure out a way how Kyrie fits with our program.
I've had those conversations with Kyrie, up 'till yesterday, and I think Kyrie will fit.
