Mavericks Eye Jaden Ivey Trade as Kyrie Irving Faces Long Injury Layoff

As the Dallas Mavericks prepare for the 2025–26 season without Kyrie Irving, who’s sidelined with a torn ACL, the team is exploring trade options to strengthen their backcourt. One proposal gaining buzz involves trading P.J. Washington to the Detroit Pistons for guard Jaden Ivey. The idea, floated by Cem Yolbulan of Detroit Jock City, suggests Dallas could benefit from Ivey’s youth and energy, while Detroit gains a veteran forward on an expiring contract. 

Yolbulan notes that if the Pistons aren’t committed to extending Ivey, now may be the right time to move him. Dallas recently added D’Angelo Russell on a two-year, $11.7 million deal, but depth remains a concern. Their current backcourt includes Klay Thompson, Dante Exum, Brandon Williams, Jaden Hardy, and Max Christie—talented but unproven. A move for Ivey could bring balance and potential to a roster needing stability.