While the intended plans for Nico Harrison and the Dallas Mavericks were thwarted by injuries after they traded Luka Doncic, there is optimism within the franchise that Kyrie Irving will be able to return from his ACL tear prior to the 2026 All-Star break.
Irving's contract status is also a question as he could become a free agent this offseason. The Mavericks have interest in having Irving decline his player option for 25-26 to sign him to a new three-year deal.
"The expectation around the Dallas Mavericks, Kyrie Irving, is that he will play a good chunk of next season," said Shams Charania. "There is optimism that he will be back by January.
"He's got, before that, a $45 million player option. That's the next situation that Nico Harrison and the Mavericks will have to deal with. The goal for the Mavericks has been to rip up his player option and give him a three-year deal potentially. To align him with Nico Harrison's three years and Anthony Davis' three years."
Irving, who averaged 24.7 points, 4.8 rebounds and 4.6 assists this past season, is represented by Shetellia Riley. Irving turned 33 in March.
