The Dallas Mavericks have fielded multiple inquiries for guard Kyrie Irving but continue to insist the 34-year-old is off limits, according to the latest report from NBA insider Marc Stein.
Newly appointed team president Masai Ujiri has reiterated since taking over that he wants Irving to share the floor with rookie centerpiece Cooper Flagg despite a sizable age gap. Dallas believes Irving’s presence could accelerate Flagg’s development, a factor that has kept the club from engaging in serious trade conversations, the report states.
The Detroit Pistons and Minnesota Timberwolves are among the teams that have expressed interest in Irving, while the Houston Rockets have not contacted Dallas about him, Stein noted. Irving missed the entire previous season after tearing an ACL, and Ujiri reportedly prefers to evaluate the veteran’s fit alongside Flagg before reconsidering his stance.
Possible Jaylen Brown Landing Spots in Three-Team Scenario
League executives are also monitoring whether a third-team market might emerge for Boston Celtics wing Jaylen Brown in the event the club pursues Milwaukee Bucks star Giannis Antetokounmpo. The Portland Trail Blazers, Houston Rockets, and Atlanta Hawks have all been linked to Brown, though matching his sizable contract remains a challenge.
Trey Murphy III Drawing Heavy Interest
New Orleans Pelicans forward Trey Murphy III is one of the hottest names on the trade market. The Pistons and Indiana Pacers have both inquired about the 23-year-old, according to Stein. While all discussions to date have been initiated by rival teams, this marks the first time a front office led by Joe Dumars is willing to listen to offers for Murphy.
Mavericks Open to Moving Other Veterans
Although Dallas is resisting calls on Irving, several of the club’s other veterans appear more attainable. Sources told Stein that the Mavericks are willing to consider deals involving Klay Thompson, P.J. Washington, and Daniel Gafford. Thompson, on an expiring contract, is viewed around the league as the likeliest Maverick to be moved.
There is no indication that any trade is imminent, and Dallas is expected to continue evaluating its roster as the offseason progresses.
Source: Hoops Rumors
