Kyrie Irving has opted out of his final contract year with the Dallas Mavericks, aiming to sign a more lucrative three-year, $119 million deal. This comes after a knee injury that will sideline him for a significant part of the upcoming season, during which he averaged 24.7 points, 4.8 rebounds, and 4.6 assists. By opting out, Irving allows the Mavericks to maintain salary cap flexibility, potentially accessing a $5.7 million mid-level exception for roster enhancements.

The Mavericks, who face challenges after trading Luka Doncic to the Los Angeles Lakers and missing the playoffs, are set to rebuild. They have won the draft lottery and are expected to select Cooper Flagg, hoping to revitalize their championship ambitions.