Mavericks just dodged a Kyrie Irving nightmare if newest rumors are true

The Dallas Mavericks are set to draft Cooper Flagg with the No. 1 pick, as he is a generational talent who could take the team to the next level. He is a perfect star in the making, and pairing him with Anthony Davis and Kyrie Irving would easily increase the team's playoff hopes. It would give a deadly three-headed monster for the next couple of seasons.

However, there are just a couple of problems. First, Irving is out until next year. Dallas needs someone to replace his production until he returns from his ACL injury. They want someone to run the offense and handle the ball well. In simple terms, Dallas wants more of a facilitator at the guard position rather than a scorer to hold them over while Irving is out.

Some options to replace Irving's production include Lonzo Ball and Dennis Schroder. Both players are veteran guards who could stabilize the Mavs' offense. Another option is Chris Paul. Dallas could convince him to sign with the team, as they have the perfect roster to help him win his first NBA title. Paul's experience could be the leadership Dallas lacks.

Mavericks won't have to break the bank as much as expected for Irving

Yet, no matter who Dallas signs, there is just one problem. Kyrie Irving has a player option this offseason, meaning he can opt into his current contract or become an unrestricted free agent. All signs, though, point to Irving returning (even if he opts out), as Jake Fisher reported that a new deal is likely on the horizon. He mentioned that all signs are pointing to him returning, as this has been clear long before he tore his ACL.

Assuming the rumors are true, Dallas could bring back Irving on a cheaper deal than expected. The Mavs want Irving back on the team. He was a key component of the team's 2024 NBA Finals run, as Irving turned back time and showed flashes of his old self. He made key shots and played solid defense when needed.

It was reported that the Mavs originally would likely sign Irving to a max contract. This means he would likely sign a three-year, $176 million deal extension to remain in Dallas. This is good news, as Dallas would be able to lock in Irving for the foreseeable future. The only downside is, any other free agents they sign would have to be on a veteran's minimum.

This was going to be the case even if Irving is signed to a smaller contract, but saving every dollar you can is important with the new CBA. The Mavericks will likely surpass the second apron with the unexpected addition of Flagg, and signing Irving to too big of a contract would have made everything harder moving forward.

New reports, though, counter the claims above. It reveals that Irving's new contract won't be as big as expected. This is good news, as Dallas would have more financial flexibility.

Fischer on the Stein Line gave more insight into Irving's expected deal (subscription required). He stated, "[Kyrie] Irving holds a $44 million player option for next season." This means he has until June 24th to opt in or out of his contract.

"There have been rumbles all season that the Mavericks, either using that option as the starting point for an extension or based on an entirely new deal, have been hoping to re-secure Irving under contract for the next three seasons in the same annual ballpark of $40 million," Fischer wrote.

If the reports are true, then Dallas could potentially sign Irving to a three-year deal worth $120 million. This would be a tremendous downgrade from the expected deal, first mentioned.

Dallas could use the extra money to fill in some of the holes in their roster and not steer too far into the second apron. As mentioned, they desperately need a backup point guard to hold down the fort. It would make it easier for them to sign someone like Chris Paul or Dennis Schroder. Plus, they could re-sign some of their players like Dante Exum or Kai Jones if so pleased.

So, why not sign Irving to a contract extension once negotiations begin? He is worthy of staying in Dallas. Last week, Irving helped a fan acquire a new wheelchair van, as the fan reached out to him. His off-court actions and talents make him worthy of finishing his career as a Dallas Maverick. Plus, Irving taking a discounted extension would speak volumes to his true character.

Now, all Dallas needs to do is bring Irving back. He clearly loves Dallas, and the city embraces him. All the Mavs need to do is not mess it up.