Forgotten aspect of Kyrie Irving trade works wonders for Mavericks in free agency

The Dallas Mavericks made the biggest midseason trade in franchise history at the 2023 trade deadline as they made a move for Kyrie Irving with the Brooklyn Nets.

Dallas was searching for a co-star for Luka Doncic, and although there was a surplus of doubters and their start was rough, the Irving trade has worked wonders for this Mavs franchise. Irving and Doncic's togetherness helped push Dallas to their first NBA Finals appearance since 2011, and Nico Harrison has done a great job of building around this star duo.

Last summer, Dallas drafted Dereck Lively II and then they traded for P.J. Washington and Daniel Gafford at the trade deadline. All three of these moves complimented Doncic and Irving beautifully, and they made even more pivotal moves this summer.

Markieff Morris' hospitality helps Kyrie Irving recruit Klay Thompson to Mavericks

Dallas traded for Quentin Grimes and signed Naji Marshall, but their biggest move was a sign-and-trade for Klay Thompson with the Golden State Warriors. Irving helped recruit Thompson to the Mavs this summer, and one sometimes forgotten aspect of the Kyrie trade also helped get Thompson to Dallas.

According to NBA insider Marc Stein, Markieff Morris is one of the key reasons that made Irving feel so comfortable (subscription required) in his first season with the Mavs, and "that comfort level, sources say, is among the perks Irving relayed to Thompson to assist with Dallas' free agent recruitment of the sharpshooter who helped the Warriors win four championships."

People forget that Morris was part of the Irving trade, and his veteran leadership certainly means something to this organization. Morris is one of Irving's closest friends on the Mavs, and his helping hand in making Irving feel comfortable last season was obviously part of his recruiting pitch to get Thompson to the Mavs.

The fact that Morris was part of the reason that the Mavs were able to make their biggest free agency signing in team history is wild to think about, and fans must realize just how much he means to the team and his teammates.

Morris continues to show that his value stretches way beyond the hardwood, and although he doesn't play much, he is a leader who is well-liked by his teammates and coaches. Every team needs a player who provides leadership and good vibes, and Morris provides that daily.

Although Morris is technically a free agent, the Mavs are reportedly looking to re-sign him with their final roster spot. Dallas sees the value he provided in just a season in a half, and they seem to be prioritizing keeping him around going into next season.

Although many people forget Morris was part of the Irving trade, his value to the team ended up working wonders for the Mavs in free agency as it helped them land Thompson.

For all the latest on Markieff Morris, Klay Thompson, and the Dallas Mavericks all offseason long, stay tuned.