The Detroit Pistons have received a positive update in their potential pursuit of All-Star guard Kyrie Irving, with a new report suggesting the Dallas Mavericks could be open to a trade before the February deadline. This news comes as the Pistons continue their preseason schedule, most recently beating the Toronto Raptors 129-125 on October 16.
NBA insider Jake Fischer explained the situation during a recent live stream. He pointed to Irving's age and contract as key factors. Irving is 34 and his current deal runs through the 2027-28 season, with a player option worth roughly $42.4 million. "He just does not fit the timeline," Fischer said, noting the significant age gap between Irving and young Mavericks cornerstone Cooper Flagg.
Fischer believes trade interest will intensify if Irving proves his health. The guard recently returned from an ACL injury, scoring 17 points in a preseason game. "If he comes back healthy for a significant sample size..." Fischer stated. His salary for the upcoming season is around $39.4 million, making him a major financial asset.
The Pistons' need for a proven co-star alongside Cade Cunningham is clear. Last season, the responsibility fell heavily to center Jalen Duren, who signed a new lucrative deal this summer alongside Ausar Thompson. But the team prefers Duren in roles beyond being a secondary scoring option, especially after a disappointing postseason.
Irving represents the kind of elite, half-court creator and playoff big change Detroit lacks. He would immediately take pressure off Cunningham to handle all the offensive creation. The Pistons have already cleared some cap space by moving on from players like Tobias Harris in free agency. While the new deals for Duren and Thompson affect their finances, the front office could still structure a trade to accommodate Irving's contract.
Detroit is in the midst of its preseason slate, building chemistry ahead of the regular season. Their last result was a 129-125 victory over the Toronto Raptors on October 16. Other preseason games include a 128-106 win over the Minnesota Timberwolves on October 14, a 114-108 loss to the Washington Wizards on October 10, and a 109-107 win against the Phoenix Suns on October 5.
The team's next test is a final preseason matchup against the Boston Celtics at home on October 20. These games are helping shape the roster before any potential major moves.
Fischer emphasized that the NBA landscape shifts fast, but the trade deadline on February 11 is still months away. "There’s a long time, there is some 50 games between now and then," he added. This gives the Pistons ample time to evaluate their own roster and for Irving to demonstrate his value on the court for Dallas.
The speculation is that persistent offers will eventually force the Mavericks to consider a deal. For a Pistons team that won 60 games last season but seeks another gear, a player of Irving's caliber could be the target. It’s a situation worth monitoring as the season progresses and the deadline draws nearer.
