If there was one franchise the NBA fraternity rooted the most to win last year’s championship, it was the Dallas Mavericks. Luka Doncic and Kyrie Irving are a pretty likable duo who shot their way to the top. Arguably the best backcourt in the NBA currently, a recent issue has come out for Dallas. Kyrie Irving could potentially be a free agent next summer. It poses a significant risk if the nifty handler leaves Dallas. But Luka’s recent injury troubles could boost the chances of Irving staying with the Mavs.

ESPN’s Brian Windhorst discussed the various risks faced by Mark Cuban regarding Kyrie’s future with the Mavericks. Of course, looking at him play right now, he’s in the best shape in terms of efficiency in his career with a 53.2 FG%. Doncic’s injury is Irving’s opportunity to prove his worth to the franchise, and he is certainly doing that by putting in some ridiculous numbers.

Windhorst recognizes, “It’s been a great contract for the Mavericks. And Kyrie is having far away his best efficiency season, especially if he’s gonna carry them with Luka having an injury here. He’s gonna be a strong candidate to get back into the All-Star game.” Yet, there is a catch.

In 2023, Irving and the Mavericks agreed to a three-year deal worth $126 million. His agent and stepmom, Shetellia Riley Irving, negotiated a contract that includes a player option in the final year of his contract. Windhorst believes it’s a really tricky situation for Dallas.

He stated, “I think we have to start talking about Kyrie Irving, who could potentially be a free agent next season. In fact, the way he’s playing is so strong, that I would assume he is gonna opt out of that contract. And I think he wants to remain in Dallas, but they’re gonna have to pay him. Now, there’s a lot of people who thought that the Mavericks might have even overpaid Kyrie a year ago because they thought there’s no one competing with him. Who’s gonna make this offer?”

Brian Windhorst’s final question explored which team would spend the most money to sign Kyrie Irving. Will the Los Angeles Lakers trade him to rejoin him with LeBron James and claim another title like those good old Cleveland days?

Will Kyrie Irving leave the Dallas Mavericks amidst Luka Doncic’s injury troubles?

The best possible option for Kyrie could be to remain in Dallas. They have now acquired Klay Thompson, who can shoot the ball effortlessly from the perimeter. He’s a no-nonsense catch and shooter.

With Dereck Lively II, he is a center brimming with potential and is only improving. So, the question is, why should he leave when you have the best chance to win your second NBA title? From the looks of it, this season could benefit him with Luka’s injury.

When Doncic is predominantly the primary ball-handler in Dallas, Kyrie could take Doncic’s mantle and assist the franchise. His shooting and handling skills make him an unstoppable point guard. Doncic has sustained a right wrist strain that will keep him out for a week. Despite putting up good numbers, he doesn’t look like he’s fully fit this season. It’s Kyrie’s time to shine.

The player has posted some good numbers averaging 24.3 points per game. He’s still a talent for the ages. Hopefully, Dallas can convince him to stay for a year longer.