Moving on from Anthony Davis might look like the beginning of a youth-driven reset, but it does not signal that the Dallas Mavericks are preparing to move on from Kyrie Irving, according to Grant Afseth of Dallas Hoops Journal.
In a subscriber-only report, the analyst writes that team sources believe there is “long-term potential” in building around a partnership between Irving and rookie standout Cooper Flagg, with the duo viewed as the core of the franchise’s future.
League sources told Afseth that Flagg’s ball-handling and ability to process the game offensively have met, and in some cases exceeded, expectations ahead of the draft.
Internally, some within the organization already see Flagg as not only the team’s most dynamic scorer, but also its best natural passer.
Irving has been out of action since last March after suffering a torn ACL, meaning the Mavericks have yet to see him share the floor with Flagg.
Head coach Jason Kidd recently indicated that the team’s struggles in the standings will not change its plan to bring Irving back this season, and there has been optimism about his recovery.
Sources told Afseth that Irving has been consistently working on his game alongside assistant coach Phil Handy and has participated in competitive one-on-one sessions with members of the coaching and player-development staff.
The league analyst has previously reported that Irving is expected to be physically ready to return sometime after the All-Star break.
After watching a recent workout, Afseth noted that Irving looked “sharp,” showing his usual ability to create separation on jumpers, attack off the dribble, and finish at the rim.
Mavericks Notes: Irving, Flagg, Davis Trade, Kidd https://t.co/i51xr8C9iz
— Hoops Rumors (@HoopsRumors) February 5, 2026
