However, NBA insider Marc Stein reported that the Mavs "have continued to rebuff trade feelers" for Irving. They also reportedly "have indicated that they prefer to trade" Thompson, despite other teams like the Miami Heat "certainly hoping" that he becomes a free agent via a contract buyout. Irving missed the entire 2025-26 season while recovering from a torn ACL, but the Mavs have maintained their commitment to the nine-time All-Star. First-year head coach Dusty May declared during his introductory press conference last month that he expects to rely on Irving's veteran presence to lead a young Mavs team. Thompson's case is different, as he has one season and $17.5 million left on his original three-year contract with Dallas.