Kyrie Irving was left “stunned” by the recent trade involving Luka Doncic and Anthony Davis between the Dallas Mavericks and the Los Angeles Lakers. As many fans were, Irving was caught off guard by the announcement of the deal, which saw Doncic, Maxi Kleber, and Markieff Morris moved in a three-team trade that brought Davis and Max Christie to Dallas. It appears that even the Mavericks’ star player was kept in the dark about the trade until it was made public.
According to ESPN’s Ramona Shelburne, Irving, who was training in Cleveland at the time, was shocked when he saw the news break from Shams Charania. With the Mavericks scheduled to face the Cavaliers later that day, Irving now faces a significant distraction. Given his close relationship with Doncic and their shared experience in the NBA Finals just eight months ago, Irving’s future in Dallas might be under review, especially since he has a player option for next season, despite his strong rapport with team executive Nico Harrison.
Looking at Dallas’ roster after this unexpected trade, the Mavericks could start with Irving, Klay Thompson, P.J. Washington, Anthony Davis, and Daniel Gafford. Jaden Hardy, Dante Exum, Max Christie, Quentin Grimes, and Naji Marshall would likely make up the bench. Dallas still has an open roster spot, which could be used for a buyout player or a trade to add more frontcourt depth, as their frontcourt remains somewhat thin, even with the returns of Dereck Lively II and Dwight Powell. Given Davis’ injury history, the team may look to bolster their roster further.
