Kyrie Irving Talks Mavericks Future in Video Amid NBA Trade Rumors, 'I'm In Love With This Place'

Kyrie Irving expressed love for his city but came short of saying he expects to retire a Dallas Maverick amid trade rumors surrounding him ahead of the 2026-27 NBA season.

"I'm in love with this place just because of how welcoming it was, not just from the franchise aspect but also the fans, a lot of support around the city," Irving said Saturday (h/t DLLS Sports' Kevin Gray Jr).

When asked if he wants to finish his career in Dallas, Irving said, "I wish a lot of that was under my control, but I think it's a collaborative effort here."

Irving added he feels the Mavericks are ready to build "something new" after winning just 26 games last season as Irving rehabilitated from his ACL injury.

"I think I'm turning the page, and looking forward to building something new, having these guys rally around each other, I'll rally around them," Irving said. "They lean on me for leadership. I lean on them for energy, and vice versa."

Irving continued, "Every fair criticism that was brought to this franchise was fair. I'm never going to shy away from that, either. But I think my focus is just continuing to develop."

ESPN's Tim MacMahon recently reported how long Irving will be with the Mavericks is a question "being asked around the league" not because of discord between Irving and the Mavericks but the franchise may look to build a younger core around 19-year-old Cooper Flagg.

Irving, who turned 34 in March, is currently signed through this season with a player option for the 2027-28 campaign.

Whether he gets the chance to consider activating that option in Dallas could hinge on if new Mavericks general manager Mike Schmitz determines trading Irving by next February's deadline will give his franchise a better chance of building a playoff contender in Flagg's near future.