Kyrie Irving's relationship with Kidd is gone, and Dusty May could push him out the door

Jan 8, 2026; Salt Lake City, Utah, USA; Dallas Mavericks guard Kyrie Irving (11) watches play against the Utah Jazz in street clothes during the first half of the game at Delta Center. Mandatory Credit: Rob Gray-Imagn Images

The Dallas Mavericks have spent the last 18 months tearing down their roster. It started in February 2025 when they traded Luka Doncic to the Lakers. General Manager Nico Harrison was fired shortly after, Anthony Davis left and on May 19, head coach Jason Kidd parted ways with the team.

President Masai Ujiri is now trying to rebuild completely around Cooper Flagg, who averaged 21 points and 6.7 assists this season. However, this leaves Kyrie Irving as the last remaining veteran from the old roster.

To lead this new direction, the Mavericks hired Dusty May, less than three months after he led the Michigan Wolverines to a national championship. May is known for developing young players, making it clear that the front office is committed to youth. So, it seems like Irving's time with the team is likely coming to an end.

Why Kyrie Irving's exit seems now more likely

Irving and  Kidd had a deep connection. Just to recap, Irving grew up idolizing Kidd, which is why Dallas felt comfortable trading for Irving when his value was low. Losing Kidd removes Irving's main tie to the franchise.

At 34, Irving is trying to return next season after missing a full year with a torn ACL. He owes $39.5 million this year and holds a $42.4 million option for the following season. This expensive contract does not match Dallas current rebuilding blueprint. They must now choose between catering to an aging, injured star or building entirely around Flagg.

Publicly, the front office claims it wants to do both. Ujiri said that he is curious to see how Irving and Flagg look on the floor together. But NBA insider Jake Fischer reports that rival executives do not buy the spin, expecting contenders to call about Irving all summer.

The Minnesota Timberwolves are viewed as one possible destination, with Anthony Edwards having openly praised Irving and pushed for the organization to pursue him. A reunion with the Brooklyn Nets has also been discussed by league executives. With Kidd out of the picture, Irving's exit from Dallas seems more likely than ever

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