Mavs Form Luka Doncic, Kyrie Irving Duo Using Blockbuster Trade
The Dallas Mavericks were considered a top team to watch as buyers ahead of the Feb. 9 trade deadline. With a limited collection of draft capital, there were obstacles in pursuing a blockbuster trade in most circumstances — until Kyrie Irving requested to be traded by the Brooklyn Nets.
According to ESPN's Adrian Wojnarowski, the Mavs have officially agreed with the Nets to acquire Irving. The deal involves Spencer Dinwiddie, Dorian Finney-Smith, a 2029 first-round pick, and multiple second-round picks. It was later reported that Markieff Morris will also be headed to Dallas.
Irving sat out of the Nets' matchup against the Washington Wizards on Saturday due to what was listed as right calf soreness. He was widely expected to be traded from Brooklyn before the Feb. 9 deadline passes. He is averaging 27.1 points, 5.3 assists, and 5.1 rebounds per game this season.
The Mavs seemed to be the most logical trade partner among the rumored potential suitors for the Nets. Because they had an immediate guard replacement in Spencer Dinwiddie and the ability to send a 3-and-D wing in Dorian Finney-Smith, both players will help Kevin Durant.
Irving is currently earning $36.9 million in the final year of his contract and sought a four-year, $198.5 million extension from the Nets. He is ineligible to sign more than a two-year, $78.6 million extension with the Mavs but can sign a more significant contract after the league year.
The relationships that Mavs GM Nico Harrison and coach Jason Kidd have with Irving were considered as being instrumental in the decision to finalize a trade. The continued need to find a secondary star loomed large as Dallas was 0-7 in games that Doncic didn't play.
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