Kyrie Irving missed the entire 2025–26 NBA season after suffering a torn ACL in 2025, with the Dallas Mavericks officially ruling him out in February to prioritize a full recovery and avoid reinjury risk. Trade rumors are now growing, with reports suggesting the Minnesota Timberwolves could pursue Irving to pair him with Anthony Edwards as a secondary star after Minnesota’s playoff exit. Insiders claim Edwards is privately encouraging the move, believing Irving could provide the type of co-star support he gave Luka Dončić in Dallas. Meanwhile, Dallas is reportedly shifting toward a younger roster centered around Cooper Flagg, making Irving a possible trade candidate as the franchise focuses on long-term rebuilding.

