The Atlanta Hawks could make sense as a Kyrie Irving trade destination if the Dallas Mavericks eventually decide to move the veteran guard.
The Atlanta Hawks are entering the upcoming NBA season with a young roster, draft capital, and a salary cap intact. There could be a trade target for the team to monitor throughout the season.
ESPN's Tim MacMahon spoke about the chatter around the league and whether or not guard Kyrie Irving would remain with the team long-term. While there have been no reports of interested teams or that the Dallas Mavericks are shopping him, the question remains about the franchise's long-term future.
MacMahon spoke about questions surrounding the Duke product's long-term future with Dallas.
"But they're building around a 19-year-old prodigy in Cooper Flagg," said MacMahon. "So could there come a time when it makes sense for both sides to find a contender for Kyrie to go?" he added.
MacMahon explained that the Dallas guard is happy in the city and the organization loves him but the long-term plans may speed up the possibility to part ways.
Irving's Future in Dallas Could Become a Trade Story
Irving is coming off a torn left ACL he suffered in 2025. Before the injury, he was averaging 24.7 points, 4.8 rebounds, and 4.6 assists while shooting 47.3 percent from the field. Although Dallas has not committed to moving the guard, it would work for the franchise because they already traded guard Luka Dončić in 2025.
Irving was originally brought in to be paired with Dončić to help the team offensively. The two did reach the NBA Finals. Moving forward, the team will be built around Flagg, who won Rookie of the Year in 2025-26.
Moving Irving would provide the Mavericks with a fresh start and shave some salary. Also, the team won't have to worry about his health.
Why Irving Could Make Sense for Atlanta
The Hawks should consider Irving if he becomes available because the franchise needs an elite point guard and a No. 2 scoring option. Forward Jalen Johnson leads the team in points (22.5), rebounds (10.3), and assists (7.9).
However, Johnson will need another scoring option and a primary ball-handler that can elevate the team. When Dallas landed Irving, critics questioned whether he could coexist with Dončić but the two were able to play off each other.
With the addition of guard/forward Luguentz Dort and guard Dyson Daniels returning to the Hawks for his third season, the perimeter shooting may drop. Adding the Mavericks guard could space the floor, provide another playmaker, and provide a veteran presence.
The 34-year-old guard will be a free agent after the 2027-28 season. While some may have paused due to his age, he has championship experience and can lift a young team.
Atlanta is one of the few teams that do not have a player under contract making $30 million a year. While Irving could carry a high asking price, the team has plenty of players that can be traded to meet salary-matching requirements.
The Hawks' projected starting lineup could currently include Johnson, guard CJ McCollum, Daniels, guard Nickeil Alexander-Walker, and center Onyeka Okongwu.
