The Dallas Mavericks have finalized a three-year contract extension with guard Kyrie Irving worth $118 million. The deal includes several notable features such as a 15 percent trade kicker, a player option, and an upfront payment structure. This contract aims to provide Irving with financial security while also addressing potential future transactions.
Irving chose to forgo his original $43 million player option for the 2025-26 season in favor of this new agreement, as reported by ESPN’s Shams Charania. The news of his commitment to this contract first surfaced on June 24, with the Mavericks officially announcing it on July 6 to mark the start of the new <a href="https://www.buzzineintl.com/category/basketball/nba/”>NBA league year.
Understanding the Trade Kicker and Payment Terms in the Agreement
A trade kicker is a contractual bonus paid to the player if they are traded during the contract period. According to definitions from Basketball-Reference, this bonus is a percentage of the player’s salary received upon being traded. Irving’s contract includes the maximum allowable trade kicker of 15 percent, which is significant in the event Dallas decides to trade him.
In addition to this, Irving will receive half of his base salary upfront by October 1. This early payment offers a substantial financial advantage amid his current recovery. The contract’s year-by-year breakdown was detailed by Spotrac, illustrating the specific payment and option structure.
Irving’s Current Status and Performance Outlook
Entering his 15th NBA season at age 33, Irving has maintained a strong performance, averaging 24.7 points per game on 47.3 percent shooting last season, along with 4.8 rebounds and 4.6 assists. Unfortunately, his 2023-24 campaign was cut short after suffering a torn ACL in his left knee on March 3, which required successful surgery later that month.
This injury means Irving will miss a portion of the 2025-26 season, but uncertainty remains regarding the full length of his recovery period. His willingness to prioritize long-term health over a speedy return was evident during a recent live stream, where he addressed his playoff availability.
Don’t hold your breath on that… I just want to be back 150,000 percent better. I’m taking my time right now to really get healthy… I just want to be back out there.
— Kyrie Irving, Dallas Mavericks Guard
Implications of the Contract and What Lies Ahead
This revamped contract offers Kyrie Irving financial flexibility and security while accommodating potential trade scenarios with the included kicker. As he recovers, the Mavericks and fans will be watching closely to see if Irving exercises his 2027-28 player option, which remains a key unknown.
Irving’s health and performance in the upcoming seasons will significantly impact the Mavericks’ strategies moving forward, especially as they plan for competitive playoff runs. His experience and skillset remain valuable assets to the team, provided he can return fully rehabilitated from his injury.