By Eurohoops Team/ info@eurohoops.net
The Brooklyn Nets are trading Kyrie Irving to the Mavericks, per ESPN. The Mavericks are sending Dorian Finney-Smith, and Spencer Dinwiddie, a 2027 first-round pick, and second-round picks to the Nets.
Irving’s tenure in Brooklyn ends after a tumultuous four seasons that included injuries, dozens of missed games due to a refusal to get vaccinated against COVID-19, and a suspension this season for promoting a movie that contained antisemitic themes.
Irving, 30, opted into the final season of his deal before the season but requested a trade last week after failing to reach an agreement with Brooklyn on an extension.
Irving has played less than 150 games combined over the last four seasons but remained a max-level player when he was on the court. Irving is averaging just over 27 points, 5 rebounds, and 5 assists per game this season with excellent efficiency.
The Irving – Dallas connection
Mavericks general manager Nico Harrison has a long history with Irving, going back to their Nike days together, and Dallas coach Jason Kidd was a proponent of the trade. The Mavericks also ran the deal for Irving past All-NBA star Luka Doncic, who gave his approval per ESPN.
Irving is expected to arrive for a physical on Monday in Dallas and is expected to make his Mavericks debut vs. the LA Clippers on Wednesday.
Dinwiddie, meanwhile, returns to Brooklyn, where he played for five seasons before sustaining an ACL injury early in the 2020-21 season.