5 teams that could steal Kyrie Irving from Dallas Mavericks in free agency

The Dallas Mavericks pulled off a bold trade for Kyrie Irving in February. They wanted to get Luka Doncic a co-star, and the Mavs jumped at the first chance. Dallas gave up three draft picks and two starters to acquire the eight-time All-Star, who is set to become a free agent this summer.

Things did not go as planned after the deal. Before the trade, the Mavs were fighting for a playoff spot in the crowded Western Conference at three games over .500. They hoped to make a strong close to the season and finish inside the top four, but instead, Dallas went 9-18 after the trade and missed the playoffs entirely. It has fans questioning the fit between the two stars and whether Irving has already played his last game in Dallas.

Kyrie is free to sign with any team this summer, but only rebuilding organizations are projected to have significant cap space. Will Irving get a max contract offer from another team? Dallas has to re-sign the eight-time All-Star, but he figures to have plenty of suitors on the open market.

Teams that could steal Kyrie Irving from Dallas Mavericks in free agency: 5. Houston Rockets

The Rockets have won 59 games in the last three seasons combined, but they plan on moving past their rebuild this summer. Houston will have another top pick to add with Jalen Green, Jabari Smith, Alperen Sengun, and Kevin Porter Jr. to form a dynamic young core.

The Rockets have cap space, and they plan on being aggressive. They have been heavily linked to James Harden (subscription required), but what if the former MVP stays in Philly? Expect Houston to set their sights on another star.

Would Kyrie sign with the Rockets to spearhead their young roster? Does Houston have interest in Irving? The Rockets have cap space and a desire to improve their roster. Kyrie Irving is one of the top free agents, so it is something worth watching.