Dallas is feeling the sting of a sudden breakup. Who saw this coming? Luka Doncic was traded to the Lakers for Anthony Davis. A move that shocked the NBA world. But wait—there’s more. This twist isn’t just about teams; it’s about the end of a fan-favorite friendship. Yes, you guessed it. Luka and Kyrie Irving, the dynamic duo we all adored since 2023, are no more. Their chemistry was undeniable, a match made in basketball heaven. Together, they pushed the Mavericks to the NBA finals. But now, it’s over. Just like that.

And sadly, now they’re rivals, Kyrie Irving and Luka Doncic, I mean. After Luka’s trade, rumors swirled. The 32-year-old NBA champ might want out too. Perhaps, just perhaps, Kyrie Irving is eyeing a reunion with LeBron James in LA. At least that’s what he seemed to be wanting after leaving the Brooklyn Nets in 2023. However, in the newest turn of events, it looks like Irving might have his future here in Dallas itself.

NBA Insider Marc Stein reported on Monday that Kai and the Mavericks remain on course to sign a new contract this offseason. This summer, Kyrie Irving and the Dallas Mavericks face a crucial decision. Irving could opt in for the final year of his contract, then sign a four-year extension worth up to $266.7 million. Alternatively, he could opt out and secure a five-year deal, potentially reaching $313.9 million.

Since acquiring Anthony Davis, reports suggest the Mavericks are committed to locking down Irving. The vision is clear: build a championship-contending core with Irving and Davis leading the charge for the foreseeable future. At the same time, Kai has yet to publicly speak about his true feelings about Luka leaving the team to become the Lakers’ new No.77. Losing one’s teammate isn’t uncommon in the sport, but this? Absolute shocker!

Meanwhile, there’s been talks about LeBron James being interested in having Kyrie Irving as his teammate. In fact, reports suggested that Anthony Davis was on board with the idea, but now he has become a teammate with Kyrie. Talk about coincidences!

Is a Kyrie Irving to Lakers trade even possible?

In all honesty, LeBron James would be the happiest person in the Lakers locker room if Rob Pelinka ever gets to bag Kyrie Irving. The 8x All-Star point guard nearly reunited with James and the Lakers. After requesting a trade from the Brooklyn Nets in 2023, it seemed like a real possibility. But then, a twist. Irving chose Luka Doncic and the Mavericks instead. A reunion with LeBron? Not this time.

“Everything was considered,” Irving confessed. “He’s a great friend of mine, a great brother of mine. We obviously played together [in Cleveland]. Everybody knows our history.” But, as Kyrie continued, “There were so many different factors in between.” When it came down to the business side, Kai pointed out, “You have to ask the GMs, the presidents why certain things didn’t work out.”

For now, maybe the trade possibilities look slightly bleak. Besides, the Lakers will be paying $43 million to Luka Doncic for the 2025-26 NBA season. If the 25-year-old Slovenian opts for a 4-year contract extension with LeBron and Co., he’d make around $228.6 million on top of the roughly $43 million he is already owed, bringing his contract total to around $271.6 million.

So, what’s next? The plot thickens. Kyrie Irving may stay in Dallas, locking down a massive contract while the Mavericks build their future with AD. But let’s not forget, the Lakers’ interest in Irving is still lingering. With Luka and LeBron both commanding huge deals, a reunion may seem unlikely—but hey, this is the NBA. Expect the unexpected!