Kyrie Irving has the best interests of the Dallas Mavericks at heart. With Irving nursing an Achilles tear, it was uncertain whether he would test free agency or continue with the Mavericks. He had a $43 million player option for next season, but instead of that, he did one better for the team.
Irving intends to extend his commitment to the Mavericks for three more years on a contract worth $119 million. According to ESPN’s Shams Charania, Irving explained he chose to stay not just for his own commitment, but for a mutual, shared belief in building “a real legacy in Dallas.”
“I spoke to Kyrie Irving just a few moments ago, and 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,” Charania said.
“And even more than that, his belief in this team’s ability when he’s healthy and whole again, potentially in January or February, and beyond over the next three years,” Charania added. “To compete for a championship around him, Anthony Davis, soon-to-be No. 1 overall pick Cooper Flagg and the leadership there, Jason Kidd, Nico Harrison and former owner Mark Cuban.”
Joined @notthefakeSVP on the Celtics’ incoming calls on Jaylen Brown and Derrick White as they shed $180 million in taxes over 24 hours — plus Kyrie Irving explains his Dallas commitment: pic.twitter.com/R4NcbvpFLw
— Shams Charania (@ShamsCharania) June 25, 2025
This is a deal favorable to the Mavericks, who are in a good spot from every way. Irving’s contract averages out to just under $40 million annually — slightly less than his expiring option. He’s on path to return to NBA court by January or February.
Last season, he averaged 24.7 points, 4.8 rebounds, 4.6 assists, and 1.3 steals across 50 games. Over his 128-game tenure with Dallas, he has performed more than well: 25.5 ppg, 4.9 RPG and 5.1 apg.
By the time he joins the Mavericks next year, potential No. 1 pick Cooper Flagg might already be settled in the NBA and Anthony Davis will be leading the group. The trio along with auxiliary pieces should more than fill the void left by Luka Doncic and help the Mavs get back to the NBA Finals.
