Kyrie Irving has decided to decline his $43 million player option for the 2025–26 NBA season, but he isn’t going anywhere. According to league sources, the All-Star guard intends to sign a new three-year contract worth $119 million to remain with the Dallas Mavericks, solidifying his long-term future with the team.
The deal, which includes a player option for the third year, ensures Irving’s continued partnership with fellow star Luka Dončić as Dallas looks to stay competitive in the Western Conference. The contract provides both financial security for Irving and roster stability for the Mavericks, who made a deep playoff run last season. The move also gives Irving flexibility to revisit his future with the team ahead of the 2027–28 season, should he choose to opt out at that point.
Irving, 32, had a strong season with the Mavericks before suffering a torn ACL late in the year. Despite the setback, the team remained committed to him as a key piece of their championship ambitions. His decision to opt out of the player option in favor of a new multi-year deal reflects confidence in both his recovery and the team’s direction moving forward.
The Mavericks acquired Irving in a blockbuster trade with the Brooklyn Nets in 2023 and have since worked to create a stable and supportive environment for him. His chemistry with Dončić on the court and leadership presence in the locker room have been seen as major assets by the franchise.
With this agreement in place, Dallas locks in one of its most important players while giving Irving a renewed sense of control over his career path. If he returns to full strength next season, he’ll be a major factor in the Mavericks’ push for another deep playoff run — and possibly a championship.
