The Dallas Mavericks are confronting a critical void at point guard following Kyrie Irving’s ACL injury in early March, sidelining him indefinitely. This setback, combined with the team’s recent tumultuous months—including trading Luka Dončić for Anthony Davis, Davis’ own injury troubles, missing the playoffs, and drafting new star Cooper Flagg—has intensified the urgency to find reliable backcourt support as they look ahead to the 2026 return of Irving.
The Kyrie Irving injury impact on Dallas Mavericks has created financial and roster obstacles, since re-signing Irving to a contract extension is expected to limit the team’s salary flexibility. Despite these constraints, the Mavericks can offer enticing playing time opportunities, allowing any incoming point guard to claim a starting role temporarily, thus potentially rebuilding their value in the NBA spotlight.
Front Office Strategy Focuses on Defensive and Starting-Caliber Guards
According to Jake Fischer of The Stein Line, Dallas is prioritizing the recruitment of a starting-level point guard who can later ease back into a complementary role alongside Irving when healthy. With an emphasis on defense in line with Harrison’s championing of defensive prowess as a route to championships, the Mavericks aim to bring in at least one guard noted for defensive capability and versatility on the floor.
While re-signing Spencer Dinwiddie remains an option despite his uneven performance last season, the franchise is actively exploring fresh alternatives among this year’s free agent class. These candidates must not only fill immediate gaps but also fit long-term defensive and playmaking philosophies.
Six Free Agent Point Guards Viewed as Suitable Mavericks Targets
Dennis Schröder: Veteran Stability with Proven Starting Experience
Dennis Schröder spent last season with multiple teams including Brooklyn, Golden State, and Detroit, where he became a crucial stabilizing presence behind rookie Cade Cunningham. Averaging 13.1 points and 5.4 assists over the year, Schröder provides the veteran leadership and consistent floor management the Mavericks need. Although Detroit may seek to retain him, Dallas could attract Schröder with the chance to secure a starting role and demonstrate his ongoing impact on a competitive squad.
Chris Paul: Experienced Playmaker Seeking Balanced Role
Chris Paul, now an unrestricted free agent after a season with the San Antonio Spurs averaging 8.8 points and 7.4 assists, presents a unique fit. Dallas might lure him with an opportunity to orchestrate the offense alongside Anthony Davis and Cooper Flagg before transitioning back to a reserve role upon Irving’s return. Known for preferring significant court time over a deep bench position, Paul could find the Mavericks’ competitive yet flexible environment appealing.
Malcolm Brogdon: Injury-Riddled Yet Potentially Impactful Contributor
Malcolm Brogdon played only 24 games last season due to a sprained ankle, and his track record of injuries could cause reservation. However, his salary demands might be lowered accordingly, making him a low-risk investment with high upside. Having spent recent years in Portland and Washington, Brogdon may be highly motivated to prove his value once more in a playoff-caliber setting like Dallas.
Tyus Jones: Opportunity for Rebound in New Surroundings
Tyus Jones endured a difficult season with the Phoenix Suns, affected by a challenging team dynamic, but still averaged 10.2 points and 5.3 assists per game. The Mavericks could offer him a fresh start and a chance to regain confidence as a starting point guard, utilizing a system potentially better matched to his strengths and the team’s defensive ambitions.
Cameron Payne: Reliable Depth Option for Regular Season Minutes
Cameron Payne is viewed as a dependable backup capable of contributing meaningful minutes during the regular season, though perhaps not a primary solution for playoff pressure. While the Mavericks may hesitate to rely on Payne as their sole addition, his ability to stabilize guard rotations could prove valuable in supporting the team’s broader objective of returning to postseason contention.
Jevon Carter: Defensive Specialist for Bench Depth
Like Payne, Jevon Carter is unlikely to be the centerpiece signing but offers important defensive qualities that align with Dallas’ strategic preferences. Despite a challenging tenure in Chicago, Carter excelled in a supporting role with Milwaukee in 2022-23, demonstrating his ability to serve as a disruptive, on-ball defender—an asset that could complement Kyrie Irving upon his eventual comeback.
Implications for the Mavericks’ Season and Future Outlook
The Kyrie Irving injury impact on Dallas Mavericks underscores a pivotal crossroads for the franchise as it balances urgency with long-term planning. Securing a point guard who can step immediately into a leadership role while fitting into a defensively focused system is vital to maintaining competitiveness in the Western Conference. While financial constraints may limit Dallas’ options, the opportunity to start alongside emerging talents like Cooper Flagg and Anthony Davis makes the Mavericks an attractive destination for free agents eager to prove themselves.
As the Mavericks navigate this complex roster puzzle, the choices they make in acquiring point guard help will significantly influence their prospects of returning to playoff contention and ultimately competing for a championship in the years ahead.