Officially, Kyrie Irving decided to take an important step towards his future in the NBA and bypassed the $43 million he had the right to play in the 2025-2026 season, with which he left the San Diego Mavericks, deciding to sign with the club a new long-term contract. The contract, valued at around 119 million dollars over three years and with a player option in the 20272028 season, provides the All-Star point guard with both flexibility and security in his contract as he proceeds with his career in Dallas.
This move by Irving indicates his firm determination to play with the Mavericks, whom he joined in a high-profile deal on the trade market in the 2022-2023 season. Kyrie, who has incurred injuries and troubles playing with the team, is one of the building blocks that Dallas will have to achieve its goal of competing in the Western Conference with fellow superstar Luka Doncic.
Strategic Cap Move: Better than Dollars
Irving has decided not to re-sign his one-year player option, worth $43 million, and this is not only considered a personal investment in the Mavericks’ organization but also a move that allows the Mavericks to capitalize. The team has freed up important salary space in signing a longer-term deal at slightly less annual cost, achieving more salary cap flexibility to enable the team to add the much-needed depth to the roster.
More specifically, Dallas now has the $5.7 million taxpayer mid level exception at its disposal, something that they otherwise would not have had the freedom to utilize had Irving kept his player option. It is a mid level exception and it provides a way to sign valuable veterans who will be able to play right started, given that Irving will likely be out during the first part of the 2025-2026 season as he recovers from an ACL injury.
Mavericks Looking to Reinforce Roster
With Kyrie temporarily sidelined, the Mavericks are reportedly exploring multiple options to provide backup at the point guard position. According to league insiders, Dallas is considering a number of experienced guards who could stabilize the team during Irving’s absence and later provide depth from the bench.
Among the players mentioned are Chris Paul, D’Angelo Russell, Dennis Schröder, and Malcolm Brogdon. All four bring different strengths to the table. Paul, despite being 40 years old, remains a savvy floor general capable of controlling tempo and distributing the ball efficiently. He averaged 8.8 points and 7.4 assists last season with the San Antonio Spurs and could be a strong locker room presence.
Russell, who split last season between the Los Angeles Lakers and the Brooklyn Nets, averaged 12.6 points and 5.1 assists per game. His scoring ability and ball-handling make him a logical short-term replacement for Irving. Schröder and Brogdon also bring scoring and playmaking, with Schröder posting 13.1 points per game last year and Brogdon averaging 12.7 in limited appearances with the Washington Wizards.
Team Outlook With Kyrie’s Return in Sight
Although Irving is not expected to return until early 2026, possibly around January, his contract extension provides the Mavericks with long-term clarity. The team can now build with confidence, knowing their backcourt foundation is secure. The chemistry between Dončić and Irving showed promise in flashes, and the team hopes a fully healthy roster can push for a deeper playoff run in the upcoming season.
Head coach Jason Kidd and general manager Nico Harrison will now focus on adding depth to a squad that still needs reliable secondary scorers, defenders, and three-point shooters to thrive in a competitive Western Conference. Kyrie’s commitment also reinforces the idea that Dallas remains an attractive destination for veterans looking for a chance to compete.
Kyrie’s Legacy Still Evolving
This new contract marks another chapter in Kyrie Irving’s complex NBA career. A former champion and one of the league’s most electrifying guards, Irving has dealt with injuries, controversies, and public scrutiny throughout his time in the NBA. Yet his talent remains undeniable, and the Mavericks are betting big that Kyrie’s best basketball is still ahead.
The inclusion of a player option in the final year of the deal gives Irving the chance to reassess his future in three seasons. It also provides the Mavericks with a window to capitalize on their championship ambitions while their core players are in their prime.
What’s Next for Dallas
The next few weeks will be crucial for Dallas as the front office evaluates free agent options, targets trades, and prepares for the upcoming draft. With Irving locked in and Dončić leading the charge, the Mavericks are hoping this offseason sets the stage for a successful and stable 2025–2026 campaign.
Fans will now wait to see which supporting guard joins the team to fill in for Kyrie, and whether Dallas can finally build the depth it needs to return to championship contention.
