Mavericks Keep Kyrie Irving — Anthony Davis Trade Looms

Merlin sees the Mavericks aren’t ready to part with Kyrie Irving despite a rocky 5-14 start and his ongoing ACL rehab — ESPN’s Tim MacMahon said "the Mavericks do not want to trade him." That matters because Dallas’ ceiling clearly rises with Kyrie healthy; without him and with Anthony Davis largely sidelined, the team has leaned on rookie Cooper Flagg but lacks consistent veteran scoring and playmaking. The oracle also notes a darker turn: MacMahon called trading Anthony Davis a "real possibility" and even a "likelihood," hinting Dallas may rework its frontcourt while protecting the backcourt. If Kyrie returns strong, he’s the nucleus; if injuries linger or a big offer appears, the Mavs could pivot quickly. The board is set — pieces will move.