NBA Trade Rumor: Mavericks eye Celtics' $104 million star guard to replace injured Kyrie Irving

It turned out to be a forgettable season for the Dallas Mavericks on all ends. The franchise took the hard decision to trade its talisman Luka Doncic and suffered injury setbacks throughout the season. The loss of Doncic and injury departure weakened the team significantly, and eventually, they got knocked out in the play-ins. The next season could be a fresh start for the Mavericks, as they have landed the No.1 pick in the drafts. Moreover, they could make a star signing as Kyrie Irving is expected to miss out most of the season owing to an ACL tear. 

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Dallas Mavericks Can Target Jrue Holiday of Celtics

The assertions on the potential name have already begun to be made, and as per reports, Boston Celtics point guard Jrue Holiday could draw the interest of the Mavericks. The Dallas Mavericks are expected “to at least explore whether there are any feasible trade pathways” to Boston’s Jrue Holiday, NBA insider Marc Stein reported on his “The Stein Line” Substack newsletter on Monday.

Stein pointed out that acquiring Holiday would be challenging due to the $104 million remaining on his contract, which still has three years to go.

The Mavericks will face limitations in free agency as an apron team, with Flagg's rookie contract and a potential lucrative extension for Irving pushing their payroll above the second apron. This would restrict their ability to aggregate players in trades, similar to the Celtics' current situation.

Also Read | Tyrese Haliburton receives a big boost ahead of Pacers showdown with the Knicks

Other Franchises Who Can Rope In Holiday

According to Kurt Helin of NBC Sports, the Houston Rockets and San Antonio Spurs are the other teams to watch in a potential Holiday trade this offseason.

Unlike the Mavericks, the Rockets and Spurs have a cleaner pathway to land Holiday.

“With Boston likely trimming payroll this summer, look for a lot of interest from playoff teams in Jrue Holiday, an elite defensive guard who has helped the Bucks and Celtics win rings. The Rockets and Spurs might be teams to watch,” Helin wrote.

Though Holiday had a difficult season as he dealt with injuries, the 34-year-old point guard is still rated highly and can strengthen any team.