Kyrie Irving knew that he needed to be the main man of the Dallas Mavericks after the Luka Doncic trade. With Anthony Davis on the front court, the team is expected to rely on balanced offense and defense. Recent rumors claim that the 32-year-old point guard won't stay as a Mavs member for long.

His horrific ACL tear put the Mavs' playoff hopes on "shattered dreams." There was no natural leader on the floor anymore and Davis was still injury-riddled at the moment. This could push Nico Harrison to make a quick decision if he will give Irving an extension.

Will Kyrie Irving Be a Good Fit for the Rockets?

NBA Trade Rumors: Kyrie Irving's Injury Could Force Mavs to NBA Trade Rumors: Kyrie Irving's Injury Could Force Mavs to
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With a $44 million player option next season, Dallas is faced with a difficult choice: retain a 32-year-old injury-ridden star or consider a possible trade.

ESPN's Shams Charania spoke on "The Pat McAfee Show" last week that Irving was on track to get a max extension for offseason moves. This could also mean that as early as summer 2025, he could become a free agent.

One team that might make a push? The Houston Rockets. Houston is in the process of rebuilding with youth and requires a veteran presence to take their offense to the next level. While Fred VanVleet has been consistent, adding Irving might be the move that turns the Rockets into serious contenders.

For a mock trade proposal, the Houston Rockets will get Kyrie Irving (Sign-and-Trade), and Dallas Mavericks, in return will obtain Reed Sheppard, Jabari Smith Jr., Cameron Whitmore, and a 2025 First-Round Pick.

This proposed trade would provide Dallas with a clean slate and enable Houston to acquire a superstar-level player who can alter the direction of the franchise.

Why Should the Rockets Trade for Kyrie Irving?

The Houston Rockets have built a talented young core of Alperen Sengun, Amen Thompson, and Jalen Green. Though they have flashed brilliance at times, their inability to have a star playmaker has kept them from being a serious threat in the Western Conference.

Even with his recent injury, Irving was averaging 24.7 points and 4.6 assists per game on 47.3% shooting before he went down. His shot creation and ability to perform in clutch situations are something Houston is desperate for.

Complementing Irving's generational scoring alongside Sengun's playmaking and Green's athleticism may have one of the most powerful offensives in the league. With a vast amount of cap space and developmental assets, the Rockets are in a prime position to take advantage of Irving's recuperation.

According to FadeAway World, another important variable is Irving's championship pedigree. Having already achieved an NBA title with LeBron James in Cleveland, he understands the formula for succeeding at the pinnacle. That poise might prove priceless for an inexperienced team struggling to learn to close out and play in front of large audiences.

Of course, there are risks in trading for Irving. His injury record and the financial investment of a max extension (approximately $40 million a season) might be issues. Nevertheless, if Irving gets back to his best, the Rockets will suddenly possess an older superstar to guide the team.

Why Should the Mavs Trade Irving and Rebuild?

The Dallas Mavericks are drowning in successive mishaps, particularly after the mid-season split with Doncic and Davis' uncertain future due to injuries. Swapping Irving for a young asset and draft asset package would mark the start of an actual rebuild.

Jabari Smith Jr. exhibited potential as a two-way prospect, averaging 11.7 points and 6.6 rebounds this year. Although inconsistent in his growth, he has the size and skill set to be a pillar for Dallas down the line.

Cameron Whitmore adds defensive flexibility and athleticism to make him an ideal candidate for a rebuilding team. Reed Sheppard is a young shooting guard with exceptional basketball IQ and decent shooting skills.

The most precious component of this trade is the 2025 Houston first-round pick, which can be instrumental in Dallas' rebuild. Instead of wishing Irving would remain healthy and play for a competitive team, the Mavericks would be accumulating assets and prioritizing long-term prosperity.

A Win-Win Deal for Both Teams

This trade offer is not merely for the relocation of contracts—it is a smart approach that can positively impact both teams. The Rockets would get an MVP-level point guard who would strengthen their offense and guide their youngsters. In case Irving avoids injuries, Houston might be an actual playoff power in the Western Conference.

For the Mavericks, this trade is an opportunity to restart. By getting young assets and future draft picks, they would position themselves for long-term success instead of betting on an injury-ridden star.

The financial side also makes sense. Houston can take on Irving's contract, and Dallas gets the flexibility to construct a younger, more sustainable roster.