I'm confident that the Mavericks had carefully considered the potential risks and consequences before deciding to acquire Kyrie in a trade. However, the current situation is not what they had hoped for, as they could possibly miss the playoffs or even the chance to be in the play-in tournament. Luka has been a strong MVP candidate this season, so it would be a shame if his team ends up missing the playoffs.
Speaking of playoffs or play-ins, this news coming from a reliable source is a proof that the Mavericks has a high chance that they will not clinch either of the 2.
LINKThe Mavericks are "seriously considering" shutting down Luka Dončić and Kyrie Irving for the final three games of the season despite being just a game back of the Oklahoma City Thunder for the final play-in spot, according to The Athletic and Stadium. Even though the Mavericks are close to a play-in spot, they've lost seven of their last eight games to drop to 37-42 this season.
You are in the run for clinching the play-in tournament or a chance to at least enter the playoffs, but you are thinking of shutting down your 2 best scorers on your team? I mean why? This just shows that the Mavericks really gave up their chances of clinching the play-in tournament, and wants to move forward, rebuild the team, and remove what they need to remove. I saw a post a while ago saying that, the Mavericks are considering signing Kyrie Irving so that they can build a team around Luka and Kyrie, and for me, it's a good thing that they will. I mean having 2 all-star on your team increases your chances of winning the title instead of only 1. Well, better luck for them this season I guess.
I also saw this scenario for the Mavericks to clinch to the play-in tournament.
Mavs must finish 3-0, then either…
— Thunder go 1-2
or
— Wolves go 0-3
Take note that the Mavericks need to win all of their remaining games, then after that, it will all depends on the other teams whether they will enter or not. Just winning 3 straight games is hard for the Mavericks already.