Jrue Holiday Trade Buzz: Are the Dallas Mavericks Targeting the Celtics Guard After Kyrie Injury?

By Edcel Panganiban June 07, 2025 10:27

The Boston Celtics find themselves at a crossroads this offseason, grappling with a daunting luxury tax bill and the looming absence of Jayson Tatum, who is expected to miss a significant portion of the 2025-26 NBA season due to a torn Achilles. Amid this uncertainty, trade rumors have intensified surrounding veteran guard Jrue Holiday, with the Dallas Mavericks emerging as a leading suitor eager to bolster their backcourt after Kyrie Irving’s ACL injury.

Celtics’ Salary-Cap Crunch and Jrue Holiday’s Trade Value

Jrue Holiday, 34, remains under contract with Boston for three more years, carrying an average annual salary exceeding $32 million and over $104 million guaranteed. While Holiday has been a key contributor for the Celtics, averaging 11.1 points, 4.3 rebounds, and 3.9 assists last season, his hefty contract and age make him a prime candidate for a salary dump as Boston seeks to alleviate its financial burden.

Sources close to the Celtics indicate that shedding Holiday’s contract is a priority this summer. As reported by Sports Illustrated and ESPN insiders, Boston is actively exploring trade options that would allow them to reduce payroll while acquiring assets or players who can help maintain competitiveness during Tatum’s recovery. The challenge lies in finding a partner willing to absorb Holiday’s contract while offering meaningful returns.

Dallas Mavericks: A Win-Now Team Eyeing Holiday

The Dallas Mavericks have made no secret of their championship aspirations, especially with superstar Anthony Davis in his prime. However, Kyrie Irving’s torn ACL has left a significant hole in Dallas’s backcourt, creating an urgent need for a veteran point guard capable of stabilizing the offense and providing lockdown defense.

According to NBA reporter Marc Stein, the Mavericks are “likely to investigate whether there are any viable trade options for Boston’s Jrue Holiday.” Dallas views Holiday as an ideal fit—a two-time NBA champion and defensive stalwart who can contribute immediately on both ends of the floor. Holiday’s ability to guard multiple positions and facilitate the offense aligns with Dallas’s need for a steadying presence while Irving recovers.

A potential trade package discussed in media circles includes Dallas offering players like Daniel Gafford, Max Christie, and a future draft pick, which could appeal to Boston’s desire for youth and draft capital. This deal would allow the Celtics to remain relevant despite Tatum’s absence and manage their salary cap more effectively.

Holiday’s Perspective and Celtics’ Alternatives

Holiday has expressed commitment to winning and confidence in the Celtics’ talent and coaching staff, stating, “The chance to win is now, and I want to be part of that.” Yet, the financial realities and roster dynamics may force a parting of ways.

Should Boston move Holiday, the team is evaluating several potential replacements, including veterans with expiring contracts like Mike Conley or fan favorites like Marcus Smart, who could return in a three-team trade scenario. These options would help Boston maintain competitiveness while managing salary.

The Jrue Holiday trade buzz encapsulates the Celtics’ complex offseason balancing act juggling salary cap constraints, injury setbacks, and the desire to remain contenders. For the Dallas Mavericks, acquiring Holiday represents a strategic move to shore up their backcourt and sustain their title window despite Kyrie Irving’s injury. As negotiations continue, this potential blockbuster trade could reshape both franchises’ futures and become one of the most significant moves of the 2025 NBA offseason.