The Dallas Mavericks are looking to build their future around Cooper Flagg, who could someday be in the running for multiple MVP awards.
Though Kyrie Irving was out for Flagg’s entire rookie year, the nine-time All-Star served as a nice veteran presence towards the fellow Duke product, especially during practices.
While the Mavs seemingly want to keep Irving in the fold to continue to help mentor Flagg, the team may eventually need to part ways with Irving as the franchise hopes to give Flagg all the on-ball reps he needs to become the best player he can possibly be.
Here are some destinations that could make sense for Irving at this stage of his career.
Minnesota Timberwolves
The Minnesota Timberwolves could use another ball handler to help take the pressure off Anthony Edwards’ shoulders, especially during crunch time.
Irving is, of course, one of the best shot makers the league has ever seen, given his ability to break defenders off the dribble and score amongst the trees.
He can attract multiple defenders his way at any given moment, opening up more driving lanes for Edwards to exploit.
The Timberwolves could also make up for any of Irving’s defensive shortcomings with Jaden McDaniels, Rudy Gobert and Edwards alongside him.
Detroit Pistons
Cade Cunningham has emerged as one of the best point guards in the league, but it’s clear he could use some scoring help alongside him.
Irving has proven he can thrive alongside ball-dominant guards throughout his career, given his ability to get free off the ball and make quick scoring decisions as soon as he touches it.
The Pistons also have a solid defensive group to surround Irving with, especially with Ausar Thompson holding it down on the perimeter.
Irving could be exactly what the Detroit Pistons need to get out of an improving Eastern Conference.
Houston Rockets
Irving and Kevin Durant were once seen as besties during their time together on the Brooklyn Nets, but a lot of things outside of basketball prevented that team from winning a championship.
However, the two have proven they can play well alongside each other and get buckets with ease, and a winning situation could restore good vibes between the two.
Alperen Şengün can help the two get open looks with his ability to draw defenders inside, and Amen Thompson could help balance the floor with his elite defense and knack for getting to the rim.
Los Angeles Lakers
Irving has been linked to the Los Angeles Lakers many times throughout his career, namely to reunite with old friend LeBron James.
However, this time, it might be more about teaming up with his new bestie, Luka Dončić, as the two proved to be an elite duo during their time in Dallas.
The Lakers would need to make sure to insulate Irving and Dončić with a rolodex of 3-and-D wings, as they can either knock down an open 3-pointer when they collapse defenses or help make up for their defensive deficiencies on the other side of the floor.
