Mavericks could face a surprisingly cold trade market for Kyrie Irving

The Dallas Mavericks find themselves in an interesting position ahead of next season. On one hand, they could double down on their youth movement led by Cooper Flagg, who is coming off a fantastic rookie year. On the other, they could actively try to mount a playoff bid in view of the return of Kyrie Irving.

That being said, there is room for a possible dilemma for the Mavs. 

Mavericks could have a difficult time trading Kyrie Irving

Irving is already 34 years old, and if Dallas continues to struggle next season, there is a strong likelihood that he will be available for taking in the trade market before the deadline. However, the problem is actually convincing teams that he is still worth moving the needle for.

Aside from the fact that he is aging, Irving is also coming off a major knee injury. That combination makes for a crimson red flag that could very well end up turning prospective buyers off despite his still-elite ability to score, shoot from all three levels and handle the rock.

At this point in time, there is no abundance of teams with an urgent need to switch up their franchise guards. That alone makes it difficult to formulate a viable trade framework that will make sense not only for the Mavericks assets-wise, but also for the other party.

Of course, it is not exactly impossible to trade Irving. However, the reality of the situation is that it will not be easy, either. Teams are becoming more cautious about mortgaging their future and trading away draft picks for older stars given the new cap rules, and Irving is not exactly the hottest commodity right now pending him proving that he can still be an elite guard after his injury.

As such, the Mavericks might have to settle for a loss if they do trade Irving. While that is not lethal to their present cause, it is simply the price to pay for the unfortunate injury he is returning from.