Writer: Manuel
Graphic Designer: Lucas
Editor: Justin
February 6 marks the date NBA all-star player Kyrie Irving secured a move from the Brooklyn Nets to the Dallas Mavericks. Going by nicknames such as Uncle Drew, Mr. Overtime, and Ankletaker, Irving holds a reputation for being a dynamic offensive player, specializing in playmaking and finishing abilities.
Irving won Rookie of the Year after being selected by the Cleveland Cavaliers as the first overall pick in the 2011 NBA draft. He then starred in multiple NBA all-star games and finals appearances, winning one championship with the Cavaliers in the 2015-16 season. However, after Irving played for the Brooklyn Nets in a disappointing playoff series loss against the Celtics and received a 5-game ban due to antisemitic comments posted on Twitter, he requested a trade. The Nets traded Irving to the Dallas Mavericks in exchange for Spencer Dinwiddie, Dorian Finn-Smith, a 2029 first-round pick, and two second-round choices in 2027 and 2029.
Following the news, Mavericks fans did not hesitate to show excitement over this prospect.
One Dallas fan exclaimed on Twitter, “He’s gotta win us a ring now.”.
NBA fans will expect a lot from Kyrie Irving, who joins an aspiring Dallas Mavericks team that desperately needs a playmaker to assist Luka Dončic’s shooting prowess.
Immediately following the trade, the Mavericks went on a three-game win streak, who averaged 26 points and seven assists. Before the trade, the Mavericks struggled with inconsistency. On the other hand, the Nets lost 3 of their first four games without Irving, showcasing the value of a player like him.
Kyrie Irving himself will look forward to winning another championship before he retires. Fans hope he rejuvenates himself as he leaves Brooklyn, having fallen out of favor with supporters and management.
In conclusion, this blockbuster deal benefits the Mavericks short-term, but may benefit the Nets in the long term. At 30-years-old, Kyrie’s age will become an issue to worry about for Dallas’ management. The team adds to an already aging crew with Kyrie joining veterans such as 35-year-old Javale Mcgee and 31-year-old Dwight Powell. It also no longer possesses important future draft picks, reducing their ability to acquire young prospects and rookies.
The Nets, on the other hand, will suffer short-term, losing key players in Irving and Kevin Durant (who recently secured a move to the Suns). Brooklyn will have to weather the storm that is the rest of the season but hopes that young players and multiple first-round draft picks will help build the future of this team.