Brooklyn Nets Receive: G Jalen Brunson, G Spencer Dinwiddie, 2025 First-Round Pick (DAL)
Dallas Mavericks Receive: G Kyrie Irving
With this deal, the Brooklyn Nets pose a question to themselves. Can two good playmaking guards make up for the absence of one great one?
It’s not necessarily a difficult question to answer. Probably not. Still, if the sum is greater than the parts here, the Nets could keep afloat in 2022-23 following this deal.
In fact, it could even make them better. That possibility rests almost entirely on the shoulders of Jalen Brunson, who would need to agree to sign with the Brooklyn Nets to make this a double sign-and-trade. If he continues in his trajectory towards stardom, he could be a better option for the Nets than the often absent Irving.
Still, even if he stagnates, at least the Nets know he’ll be on the floor when he can be. Meanwhile, the Mavericks are gambling on a pure talent upgrade here.
LATEST NBA NEWS AND TRADE RUMORS: Kyrie Irving Eyeing Lakers, Clippers, Knicks, Heat, Mavs, 76ers
If Irving comes to training camp motivated to prove that he’s a professional, this trade could spell trouble for the rest of the NBA. If he doesn’t, it could spell trouble for the Mavericks.
If Brunson isn’t involved, the Mavericks lack immediate trade assets or enticing talents to offer the Nets in exchange for Irving.
