'A Chance to Do Something Special': Kyrie Irving Embracing Dallas Mavericks’ Long-Term Future

Kyrie Irving faces a pivotal offseason decision as he weighs whether to exercise his $43 million player option for the 2025-26 season or enter unrestricted free agency. But even before his recent comments about the franchise’s direction, all indications pointed to Irving remaining with the Dallas Mavericks, sources told DallasHoopsJournal.com.

The nine-time All-Star is recovering from a torn ACL sustained in early March but has maintained a visible and upbeat presence around the team. Following the Mavericks’ jump to the No. 1 pick in the NBA Draft, Irving spoke enthusiastically about the organization during an interview on NBA TV.

“It’s an exciting time to be a Dallas Maverick. It’s an exciting time to be a Dallas Maverick fan,” Irving said. “Shout out to MFFL, all the supporters that have been rocking with us. Getting this number one pick, we had a 1.8% chance. I loved it. I enjoyed seeing all of the excitement, not only from the city but from our executive leadership, from our ownership group, from my teammates.”

Irving said the opportunity ahead is one of the most meaningful of his career.

“This is one of those times in not only my career but in the legacy play of being a Dallas Maverick, where we have a chance to do something special,” he said. “I know Nico’s going to do a great job. I know Patrick’s going to do a great job. I know Mark’s going to do a great job. It’s been an exciting journey thus far.”

He continued: “Even just being in Dallas — it’s been up and down, so to say, in terms of the circumstances and situations — but we’ve been doing our best. I’ve been doing my best. I’m one of the leaders on the team, so I’ve got to stay stoic, stay poised, ready for the moment, ready to articulate what’s going on, and be ready to move forward.”

Irving has until June 24 to decide on his player option. While exercising his option would confirm his $43 million salary next season, league sources that have spoken to DallasHoopsJournal.com have long felt it is more likely for Irving to opt out and re-sign with Dallas on a new multi-year deal. Some have gone further to express an expectation that Irving will sign a contract to align with Anthony Davis’ timeline, who has a player option for the 2027-28 season.

Irving averaged 24.7 points, 4.8 rebounds, and 4.6 assists over 50 games during the 2024-25 season. He shot 47.3% from the field, 40.1% from 3-point range, and 91.6% from the free throw line. While he remains an integral part of the Mavericks’ plans, it remains to be seen when he will return to competition next season after recovering from a torn ACL.

Irving’s comments have only reinforced what the Mavericks’ front office has believed for months — that he remains committed to the franchise and its long-term vision.