The Dallas Mavericks may consider trading star guard Kyrie Irving before the February deadline, according to a new report from NBA insider Marc Stein. This speculation emerges as the team rides a two-game winning streak, including a 149-128 victory over the Chicago Bulls on April 13, 2026. Stein's analysis suggests the Mavericks' commitment to building around rookie Cooper Flagg could make Irving, 34, a valuable trade asset.
Why are the Dallas Mavericks considering a Kyrie Irving trade?
Marc Stein reported on his Substack, "The Stein Line," that Dallas could entertain offers for the nine-time All-Star. Irving missed the entire 2025-26 NBA season after tearing his left ACL. He stayed involved with the team, mentoring rookie Cooper Flagg, but his long-term fit is now in question.
The age gap between Irving and the 19-year-old Flagg is a key factor. With Flagg winning the 2026 Rookie of the Year award, the Mavericks appear focused on constructing their future around him. Irving holds a $42.4 million player option for after the 2026-27 season. If he declines it, Dallas risks losing him for nothing in return. A trade could bring back assets to accelerate the rebuild. You can track the team's evolving [squad](/squad) as decisions are made.
What are the potential landing spots for Kyrie Irving?
Stein's report sent NBA fans and observers into a frenzy of speculation online. Several teams were immediately floated as possible destinations. "Kyrie Irving, future Heatle," one Miami Heat supporter predicted. Another simply stated, "I know a place where Kyrie is wanted."
Miami is a popular hypothetical destination. Pat Riley has assembled significant star power there, including Irving's former Mavericks teammate Klay Thompson, Giannis Antetokounmpo, Bam Adebayo, and Andrew Wiggins. The idea of adding Irving's scoring punch is tantalizing for a contender.
Other fan suggestions were plentiful. "Bring him to the Warriors," implored a Golden State Warriors supporter. A Phoenix Suns fan posted a photo of Irving with Devin Booker captioned, "Future teammates soon." Some even dreamed of a reunion, suggesting Houston trade for Irving to pair him with Kevin Durant again. "Send Kyrie to Houston for young players and picks, and let him and [Kevin Durant] finish what they started in Brooklyn," an observer wrote.
How valuable is Kyrie Irving on the trade market?
When healthy, Irving remains one of the most dynamic guards in the league. His career averages are impressive: 23.7 points, 4.1 rebounds, 5.6 assists, and 1.3 steals per game. He shoots 47.4% from the field and 39.4% from three-point range. For a playoff team, a return to full strength for Irving could dramatically alter their championship outlook.
The Mavericks must decide if that value is better used on the court next to Flagg or converted into future draft picks and young talent. Stein noted that Dallas has turned down trade talks for Irving before. But the right offer might make them reconsider this time. The team's recent form of 2 wins and 3 losses in their last five games shows there's room for roster improvement.
What happens next for the Dallas Mavericks?
For now, there's no indication the Mavericks are actively shopping Irving. Stein's report simply opened the door to a possibility that seemed less likely before. The February trade deadline will be the next major checkpoint. Dallas will likely weigh any incoming offers against their vision for the Flagg era.
If Irving returns healthy next season and plays at an All-Star level, his trade value could peak. But the risk of him walking in free agency also looms. It's a complex decision for the front office. Monitoring the league [standings](/standings) and potential trade partners will be part of their process. The coming months will reveal whether Irving's future remains in Dallas or if he becomes the centerpiece of a major NBA trade.
