Kyrie Irving could gain money on top of his £97 million ($126m) contract if the Dallas Mavericks trade him in the next three years, with the 31-year-old able to use a unique provision in his recently signed deal to obtain the bonus.
According to HoopsHype, Irving will receive an extra 15 per cent payout — or about £14.5m — from any team that acquires him over the duration of his contract. That could incentivise him to push for an exit if he doesn't build sufficient chemistry with co-star Luka Doncic.
Before re-signing in Dallas, fans spotted Irving at a Los Angeles Lakers playoff games, prompting criticism of his loyalty. But Mavericks owner Mark Cuban claimed he never worried about Irving and believes the point guard is now fully committed to the franchise.