What the Dallas Mavericks must figure out after the 2023 trade deadline

What Dallas Mavericks must figure out during the stretch run: 1. Is Kyrie a long-term piece?

The Mavs gave up two starters and three draft picks to acquire Kyrie Irving from the Brooklyn Nets, but he is on an expiring contract. The two sides are reportedly holding off on extension talks until the offseason, so Irving will become an unrestricted free agent that can sign with any team.

There is significant risk in signing Kyrie long-term. He has demanded a trade from three franchises already, and the 30-year-old is no stranger to off-court drama. Irving should be motivated to play basketball during the stretch run because he wants to get paid. Will that continue with a long-term contract in hand?

The Mavericks can create max cap space if they decide to let Kyrie walk or pull off a sign-and-trade in the offseason. Who can Dallas add to improve their roster? Are they better off just re-signing Irving? The Mavs have the second star they coveted around Luka Doncic, so are they willing to just give that up?

The Dallas Mavericks need to figure out what works for them long-term. Is Kyrie Irving the answer next to Doncic or should they be searching for a second star elsewhere?

There is plenty of supporters to watch in the days and weeks ahead. The Mavs are looking to figure things out, so they can make another deep playoff run. Will they? Stay tuned to find out.