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7 hours ago
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After rumors suggesting that Kyrie Irving of the Dallas Mavericks could decline his player option and sign a long-term deal with the franchise, that's exactly what happened.
According to Shams Charania of ESPN, Irving has declined his $43 million player option for this upcoming season and intends to sign a three-year, $119 million deal.
"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," he wrote.
Irving, who will miss much of next season due to a tough knee injury, is expected to make a full recovery.
For the Mavericks, contenders on paper, keeping Irving in town is the right decision. With some of the moves the franchise has made over the past few months, it'd be tough to justify allowing another star to walk.
At 33 years old, Irving was still very good a year ago, averaging 24.7 points and shooting 40.1% from 3-point range.
Knee injuries are never ideal, and something that the Mavericks will have to hope goes in their favor.
However, Irving, who had an ACL tear, is still the best the Mavericks could've had.
Even if his recovery takes 10 to 12 months, it's possible that he could return at the end of next season.
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Depending on where the Mavericks are in the standings, having him return at that point would be a wise decision.
Regardless, this was a smart decision from both perspectives and allows them to keep one of the top players in the NBA in Dallas for the next three seasons.
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