Dallas Mavericks guard Kyrie Irving. Peter Casey-USA TODAY Sports

Kyrie Irving hints at desire to remain with Mavericks for long haul

By Jeff Smith | Last updated Jun 6, 2024 8:10 AM ET

Kyrie Irving has played for four teams in his NBA career, but if he opts into his player option following the 2024-25 season, it would tie his second-longest tenure with one franchise. And from the sound of it, Irving would be more than happy for his time with the Dallas Mavericks to extend beyond that.

During a recent conversation with ESPN's Malika Andrews, Irving was asked if he could see himself ending his career in Dallas. While he didn't go quite as far as guaranteeing he'd be a Maverick for the remainder of his career, the eight-time All-Star admitted he doesn't "mind being complimentary" if it means keeping the team together.

"The future is still being written. But I can tell you that with all the extensions that are going around with J-Kidd and Nico [Harrison] and potentially this summer with Luka...I don't mind being complimentary if we're gonna continue to put this band together and we have some great pieces around us," Irving said.

While Irving admitted he likes to "let it play out," he was quick to note that he's enjoying being with the Mavericks.

"The future is still being written. But I can tell you that with all the extensions that are going around... I don't mind being complimentary if we're gonna continue to put this band together... I am enjoying my time here [with the Mavs]."

-Kyrie Irvingpic.twitter.com/lA3P16docj
— ClutchPoints (@ClutchPoints) June 5, 2024

Irving's willingness to be "complimentary" is a positive thing for the Mavericks. It also signals the appreciation of the team put together by the Dallas front office.

Irving is in his second season with the Mavericks, but first full year with the team after being traded to Dallas from the Brooklyn Nets during the 2022-23 season. He averaged 25.6 points, 5.2 assists and 5.0 rebounds per game while shooting 49.7 percent from the field and 41.1 percent from three-point range during the regular season.

He's been pivotal to the team's run to the 2024 NBA Finals, and in 17 playoff games so far, Irving is averaging 22.8 points, 5.2 assists and 3.9 rebounds per game while shooting an impressive 42.1 percent from beyond the arc. He's made an impact on both ends of the floor for the Mavericks this year, but his biggest impact has come in the form of taking on a leadership role.

Jeff Smith

Jeff Smith has extensive experience as a sports writer and editor, including stops at ESPN, FOX Sports, CBS Sports, USA TODAY SMG, and Heavy. Jeff's passion for sports content starts and finishes with writing and he's grateful to be able to work in that field on a daily basis.

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