The Dallas Mavericks made one of the biggest moves of the offseason by retaining a major piece of their core as they enter their first full season after the Luka Dončić trade.
With the No. 1 pick in the upcoming NBA draft and major roster changes underway, Dallas is making it clear they’re ready to build something special for the long run.
Kyrie Irving Signs New Three-Year Deal As Mavericks Lock in Their Core
While many expected some fireworks in free agency, Kyrie Irving, who had a player option, made his choice loud and clear: he’s staying
As reported by ESPN’s Shams Charania on X, Irving is declining his $43 million player option and instead plans to sign a three-year, $119 million contract with the Mavericks. The deal includes a player option for the 2027-28 season.
BREAKING: Dallas Mavericks nine-time NBA All-Star Kyrie Irving is declining his $43 million player option and intends to sign a three-year, $119 million contract with the franchise, sources tell ESPN. The deal includes a player option in the 2027-28 season. pic.twitter.com/hduY1vEVVP
— Shams Charania (@ShamsCharania) June 25, 2025
This deal is nearly identical to the one he signed two years ago, signaling consistency and commitment from both sides.
Despite chatter, Irving was never seriously expected to walk away from the Mavericks this summer. Even while recovering from injury, the team clearly sees him as a major part of their next chapter.
Irving, who averaged 24.7 points per game before going down with a torn left ACL in March, isn’t expected back on the court until early 2026. He was injured during a game against the Sacramento Kings and will likely miss the first few months of the upcoming season. Still, Dallas is betting on his return to form.
Irving’s New Contract Provides Clarity on Mavericks’ Flagg Era Plans
While Irving’s extension makes headlines, it’s just one part of a much bigger picture in Dallas. The Mavericks are also expected to draft Duke phenom Cooper Flagg with the No. 1 pick in the 2025 NBA Draft, ushering in what could become a new era for the franchise.
Flagg is a versatile forward with a high motor and strong two-way instincts. He thrives in transition and brings rebounding, shot-making and defensive upside. He’ll join a roster that now features not just Irving but also Anthony Davis, who brings elite rim protection and inside scoring to the mix.
Together, Davis, Irving, and Flagg form a potential trio that balances veteran talent with future promise. To reinforce the frontcourt, the Mavericks also signed center Daniel Gafford to a three-year, $54 million deal earlier this week.
In the 2024-25 season, the team faced harsh criticism after trading Dončić to the Los Angeles Lakers, and Irving’s injury only added to the uncertainty. But with the No. 1 draft pick in the bag and the core locked in, the Mavericks are signaling they’re ready to turn the page, with Irving still firmly in the story.
