Kyrie Irving lands $119 million deal to stay with Dallas Mavericks after ditching player option

Ahead of the 2025 NBA Draft, nine-time All-Star Kyrie Irving has declined his $43 million player option for the 2025–26 season and instead agreed to a new three-year, $119 million contract with the Dallas Mavericks. The decision keeps Irving from hitting free agency. Additionally, the deal also allows the franchise to retain a key piece of its evolving core amid a significant offseason makeover following the blockbuster Luka Doncic trade.ESPN’s Shams Charania broke the news Tuesday night, revealing that Irving had opted out of his $43 million player option and was set to sign a new three-year deal that includes a player option in the 2027–28 season. Charania reported:“BREAKING: Dallas Mavericks nine-time NBA All-Star Kyrie Irving is declining his $43 million player option and intends to sign a three-year, $119 million contract with the franchise, sources tell ESPN. The deal includes a player option in the 2027-28 season.”The contract secured Irving’s role as a central figure in Dallas' future despite his current injury status. Charania added:“Mavericks officials and Irving’s agent, Shetellia Riley Irving, negotiated the new deal that keeps Irving out of free agency. Irving locks in almost $40 million in annual salary as he rehabilitates a torn ACL, as both sides commit to each other long term.”Irving, 33, underwent ACL surgery in March following an injury sustained against the Sacramento Kings. While he's expected to miss a large portion of the 2025–26 season, possibly returning around January, the Mavericks have made a strong bet on his ability to bounce back.In 50 games last season, Irving averaged 24.7 points, 4.8 rebounds, 4.6 assists, and shot 47.3% from the field, including 40.1% from three. His consistency earned him his ninth All-Star selection and secured his status as the team's floor general.Financially, Irving's decision to opt out and re-sign at a slightly lower annual number gives Dallas access to a $5.7 million mid-level exception, which they plan to use to bolster the backcourt while Irving recovers, per ESPN’s Bobby Marks and Marc Stein.Also Read: NBA Offseason Trade: Boston Celtics sent Kristaps Porzingis to Atlanta Hawks in blockbuster three-team dealThe Mavericks, who finished last season as the 10th seed and won the draft lottery with under 2% odds, are expected to select Duke phenom Cooper Flagg with the No. 1 pick on Wednesday. Alongside recent signee Daniel Gafford, who agreed to a three-year, $54 million deal, Irving’s return sets the tone for what the franchise hopes will be a quick resurgence. The front office now appears to be centering its rebuild around Anthony Davis, Irving, and Flagg.