The NBA is driven by star power. A contending team will be built around their best two or three players. With that said, deciding whether to build around two or three stars can be difficult.
There are advantages to each decision. If a team is built around two stars, they’ll be able to put a better cast of role players around them. At the same time – forgive us for pointing out the obvious – three is more than two.
The Philadelphia 76ers are currently built around a star duo. So are the Dallas Mavericks. If either of these teams has a disappointing outcome in the 2023-24 playoffs, they could look to reconfigure. Could the Mavericks send Kyrie Irving to the Sixers?
NBA Trade Proposal
Dallas Mavericks Receive: F Tobias Harris, 2028 First-Round Pick (LAC via PHI)
Philadelphia 76ers Receive: G Kyrie Irving
The league has always been about star power. Teams have always prioritized top-end talent above all else. With that said, that top-end talent has more sway than they’ve ever had before. Stars are taking advantage of their power.
Look at Irving. He’s been on several teams throughout his NBA career. Irving started with the Cleveland Cavaliers. He forced his way to the Boston Celtics, and then, he forced his way to the Brooklyn Nets. Eventually, he pushed the Nets to send him to the Mavericks.
NBA NEWS & TRADE RUMORS: Kyrie Irving, Dallas Mavericks, Philadelphia 76ers Updates
Here we are. If the Mavericks make a deep playoff run this year, they’ll want to hang onto the immensely talented guard. Otherwise, they could look to move him before he forces his way out of town. Should they be interested in this deal?
Why The Dallas Mavericks Do The Deal
First, a caveat. Harris would be coming to Dallas by way of sign-and-trade. He’d have to want to come to the Mavericks. Should the Mavericks want him?
We think so. Sure, P.J. Washington has looked good in a similar role that Harris would play. You can’t have too many 3-and-D forwards around a player like Doncic. Harris is a suitable partner for a primary playmaker of his ilk.
NBA NEWS & TRADE RUMORS: Kyrie Irving, Dallas Mavericks, Philadelphia 76ers Updates
Still, Dallas would likely be more interested in the first-round pick they’re receiving here. This team is light on assets and may be glad to pick up one that they can use to improve the roster around Doncic. Should the Sixers give that asset up?
Why The Philadelphia 76ers Do The Deal
Tyrese Maxey has emerged as a star in 2023-24. He’s been the Sixers lead guard. So, you may be asking yourself a question – why would they pair him with another guard?
Well, there’s no reason Irving and Maxey can’t co-exist. Sure, they’ll both have to cede some touches, but they’re also both strong off-ball players. This should work.
NBA NEWS & TRADE RUMORS: Kyrie Irving, Dallas Mavericks, Philadelphia 76ers Updates
It should help Joel Embiid as well. With his dominant inside scoring flanked by two elite guards, the Sixers should have an unstoppable offense. In other words, they’ll overwhelm opponents with star power.
