The Dallas Mavericks are reportedly gearing up to explore a potential trade for Boston Celtics’ veteran guard Jrue Holiday this summer, aiming to shore up their point guard rotation while Kyrie Irving recovers from a serious ACL injury expected to keep him sidelined until January 2026.
According to NBA insider Marc Stein, the Mavericks view Holiday as an ideal candidate to fill the leadership and defensive void left by Irving’s absence. However, the road to executing this deal is anything but straightforward given Holiday’s hefty three-year, $104 million contract and complex salary cap restrictions affecting both teams.
Dallas Looks to Rebuild Backcourt Depth
Following their painful loss to the Celtics in the 2025 NBA Finals and with star guard Kyrie Irving’s long-term health in question, Dallas is prioritizing depth at the point guard spot. The acquisition of Jrue Holiday would provide a versatile defensive stopper and experienced playmaker, smoothing the transition until Irving’s eventual return.
Adding complexity, the Mavericks recently bolstered their frontcourt by signing Anthony Davis and securing the No. 1 overall draft pick Cooper Flagg, both frontcourt assets. This creates a tradeable surplus with forwards PJ Washington and Daniel Gafford potentially included as salary matching pieces heading back to Boston.
Celtics Face Salary Cap Squeeze, Need Flexibility
Boston, meanwhile, is confronting significant salary cap challenges. Currently about $40 million above the luxury tax threshold, the Celtics must navigate tough financial terrain, especially as they aim to maintain roster flexibility during an offseason shadowed by Jayson Tatum’s Achilles injury and costly repeater tax penalties.
Moving Holiday’s large contract would ease some pressure, especially if Boston can bring back younger, more flexible frontcourt players and perhaps shed a sizable salary such as Kristaps Porziņģis’ contract. However, the complexity of the deal likely means involving a third team to facilitate salary matching and avoid hitting the second apron hard cap, which would restrict Dallas’ maneuverability.
One scenario gaining traction involves a three-team trade including the Brooklyn Nets. Brooklyn could absorb expiring deals such as Caleb Martin’s $9.6 million contract, helping Dallas clear salary while Boston gains financial relief. This approach would require creative sweeteners and draft compensation from Boston but might be the smoothest path to making the trade work under NBA cap rules.
Potential Trade Mechanics & Obstacles
The Mavericks currently sit about $12.7 million below the second apron threshold but will face pressure with rookie Cooper Flagg’s contract counted at 120% of the scale ($13.8 million). Kyrie Irving’s looming player option decision by June 24 also adds uncertainty; if Irving opts out and signs a lower-paying extension, Dallas could gain valuable salary cap space.
Veteran presence beyond Holiday might also be bolstered by signing Chris Paul to a veteran minimum contract to further stabilize Dallas’ backcourt depth, with the possibility of transitioning Paul to a bench role once Irving returns. Other guard options like Lonzo Ball, recently re-signed by Chicago, remain on the radar.
Why Both Teams Could Benefit
For Boston, the trade offers a way to offload Holiday without sacrificing key assets, simultaneously allowing the Celtics to reset their luxury tax penalty clocks and manage roster costs more effectively while waiting on Tatum’s return. They could also add a younger center if Horford or Kornet depart.
For Dallas, Jrue Holiday’s defensive intensity and veteran savvy are exactly what the team needs as they await Irving’s recovery. Holiday’s ability to facilitate without dominating the ball fits nicely alongside the developing young core, including Davis and Flagg.
What’s Next?
As the Celtics approach a potential change in ownership and prepare for the 2025 NBA Draft, management will conven
