The Toronto Raptors have been floated as a landing spot for Kyrie Irving in a hypothetical three-team trade that would pair him with Kawhi Leonard. Toronto has pursued Leonard in a trade with the Los Angeles Clippers, but that deal has yet to become official as the NBA’s investigation continues. Adding Irving would represent another win-now move for Toronto if Leonard’s trade is approved.
The Hypothetical Package Sending Irving To Toronto
In the proposed three-team framework, the Raptors would acquire Irving. The Minnesota Timberwolves would receive P.J. Washington, while the Dallas Mavericks would collect Immanuel Quickley, Donte DiVincenzo, and two first-round picks, one in 2029 via Minnesota and one in 2031 via Toronto. Nothing here is official. This is a projection rather than a report, although the players involved have been discussed in trade rumors this summer, including in Minnesota’s own separate pursuit of Washington to fill their power forward need.
Why Dallas Isn’t Rushing To Move Kyrie Irving
NBA insider Jake Fischer reported earlier this month that Dallas has resisted trading Irving, viewing him as an ideal mentor for Cooper Flagg. That presents a significant obstacle for any Toronto pursuit. Fischer also noted that the Mavericks could become more willing to explore trades involving veteran players as the season progresses.
Dallas’ recent acquisition of former No. 1 pick Zaccharie Risacher from the Atlanta Hawks, in a deal that also included the Oklahoma City Thunder, could point toward a younger long-term direction. If Flagg and Risacher become central to that plan, turning 34-year-old Irving into younger rotation pieces would at least become a conversation for Dallas. Irving currently carries a cap hit of roughly $39.5 million for 2026-27, with a player option the following season.
What Irving Could Give Toronto
If Leonard’s trade is approved, Toronto would have a core led by Leonard and Scottie Barnes. Barnes has continued to develop as a two-way player, while Jamal Shead and Collin Murray-Boyles showed potential during the Raptors’ first-round series loss to the Cleveland Cavaliers. The roster could still benefit from a dependable backcourt playmaker, which is where Irving would fit.
In his last full season on the floor, Irving averaged just under 25 points per game and shot 40% from 3-point range. Less than a month before his ACL injury, he scored 42 points and made seven of 10 3-pointers against the Golden State Warriors. A lineup featuring Irving, RJ Barrett, Leonard, Barnes, and Jakob Poeltl would give Toronto considerable talent on both ends of the floor.
Why The Deal Remains Uncertain
The proposed trade remains speculative, particularly because Fischer’s reporting indicated that Dallas has not been looking to move Irving. The Mavericks’ view of Irving as a mentor for Flagg and the uncertainty around his return from injury are key factors in any discussion of a potential deal.
| Scenario | What it would mean |
|---|---|
| Toronto acquires Irving | The Raptors would add an established backcourt scorer alongside Leonard and Barnes. |
| Dallas retains Irving | Irving would remain a veteran presence alongside Flagg as the Mavericks evaluate their roster. |
| Dallas explores veteran trades later | Any renewed discussion would depend on the Mavericks’ evolving direction as the season progresses. |
What Happens Next For Toronto’s Plans
The Leonard trade has yet to become official while the NBA’s investigation continues, and its outcome will shape Toronto’s next steps. Until Leonard’s situation is resolved, an Irving pursuit remains theoretical.
Toronto’s pursuit of Leonard signals a desire to compete now. Adding Irving would extend that approach, but it would require Dallas to change its current stance on moving him.
