NBA Team Seeking Point Guard Amidst Kyrie Irving's January Anticipated Comeback
Mavericks Seek Point Guard Reinforcements Amid Kyrie Irving's Absence
With Kyrie Irving set to miss the initial few months due to a knee injury, the Dallas Mavericks are on the hunt for a new point guard. ESPN's Shams Charania broke the news first.
Irving underwent surgery on his torn ACL on March 5, which means a recovery period of about nine months. This places his anticipated return in January.
At the NBA Draft Combine, Charania revealed the Mavericks' intent to bolster their point guard corps. "The Mavericks are after a point guard. Whether it's through trades or free agency, that's their prime focus right now. Kyrie Irving is aiming for a January comeback. We'll see who they can recruit as a temporary fix," Charania stated.
A great dose of optimism came the Mavericks' way on Monday, as they clinched the draft lottery's top spot. This decision has them favored to pick the consensus best player available - Cooper Flagg. However, given Flagg's green status, it only makes sense for the Mavs to bring in a more seasoned point guard.
With both Spencer Dinwiddie and Dante Exum hitting free agency this summer, only Brandon Williams remains on a guaranteed contract as a point guard option. As for Irving, he holds a player option, although indications suggest he'll stay with the Mavs somehow.
Spotting the Right Fit Amidst Free Agency
The Mavericks, who are above the luxury tax line, could opt for the tax-payer mid-level exception to sign a free agent point guard, which is predicted to be around $5.7 million. Here are five potential candidates for the job:
- D'Angelo Russell (Brooklyn Nets)
- Tre Jones (Chicago Bulls)
- Tyus Jones (Phoenix Suns)
- Chris Paul (San Antonio Spurs)
- Malcolm Brogdon (Washington Wizards)
These players could slot in as temporary starters and transition to backup roles once Irving recovers. Trade possibilities offer broader choices.
January Comeback: Ahead of Schedule for Kyrie Irving?
At 33 years old, Irving's potential comeback in January would be considered earlier than anticipated. This is the first time a specific return date has been suggested for Irving, but neither an update on his current condition nor a conclusive timeline is available yet. If Irving recovers well and manages to play his A-game in January, it might pave the way for a re-evaluation of title contention. Flagg's development in these early stages would prove crucial in this regard.
With Luka Doncic traded away in February, Mavericks general manager Nico Harrison seems intent on continuously reshaping the team.
- The Dallas Mavericks are considering to strengthen their point guard position, either through trades or free agency, as Kyrie Irving is aiming for a January comeback.
- Potential free agent point guard candidates for the Dallas Mavericks include D'Angelo Russell, Tre Jones, Tyus Jones, Chris Paul, and Malcolm Brogdon.
