Kyrie Irving has the opportunity to test free agency in 2025 if he decides to opt out of his $42 million player option for the 2025-26 season with the Dallas Mavericks.
However, contract specifics aside, ESPN’s Tim MacMahon strongly believes that Irving is likely to remain with the Mavericks for the long term.
“He has a $42 million player option,” MacMahon explained on Friday’s Hoop Collective podcast. “Look, I’m not telling you exactly how it will work out. My guess is he’ll end up declining that player option. But what I would say is I would be extremely surprised if Kyrie Irving is not in Dallas for the next few years.
“The Mavericks have already demonstrated that they are willing to pay, not market value, because they could have quote-unquote won the negotiations with him. Remember, they were criticized for giving him the contract because nobody else.”
MacMahon pointed out that Dallas’s willingness to invest heavily in Irving shows their commitment to him as a cornerstone of the team.
“The point is they have demonstrated, ‘We value you and we will pay you how much we value you within the ability to have a little bit of wiggle room financially.’ They are going to put a big number on the table for him. He has been extremely happy in Dallas.
“They are extremely happy with him. He’s the leader of this locker room. That’s unquestioned. And, right now, he is playing as well as he ever has. Certainly as efficient as he ever has.”
The Mavericks acquired Irving in a blockbuster trade at the 2023 deadline, partnering him with Luka Dončić to form a dynamic backcourt.
Following the trade, the franchise doubled down on their belief in Irving’s talent, signing him to a three-year, $126 million deal in the offseason, which includes a player option in the final year.
MacMahon stressed that Irving’s future with Dallas is mutually beneficial, adding, “Things would have to take a real turn for it to be a situation where Kyrie is not part of the Mavericks moving forward. I don’t see that as a realistic option for either side. Everybody’s happy.”
Irving’s tenure in Dallas so far has been marked by mutual satisfaction between the player and the organization. As the team continues to perform well and Irving maintains an elite level of play, both parties appear invested in their shared success.
Kyrie Irving Expected To Remain With Mavericks Long-Term Despite Potential 2025 Free Agency https://t.co/LD7uqRtSGy
— RealGM (@RealGM) November 22, 2024
