BREAKING NEWS: Until Kyrie Irving is healthy, the Dallas Mavericks will use the Taxpayer Mid-Level Exception to try to sign Chris Paul as a guard substitute. according to….

Dallas is planning to use its Taxpayer Mid‑Level Exception (approximately $5 million) to potentially sign veteran guard Chris Paul as a

Although no official offer has been made, multiple league sources confirm the Mavs view Paul as an experienced playmaker who could bolster the backcourt during Irving’s absence. Paul, who totaled 82 games with the Spurs last season averaging 8.7 points and 7.6 assists

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, remains productive and well-regarded for his leadership and pick‑and‑roll mastery.

Should the plan proceed, the Mavericks hope Paul’s presence would stabilize the team — both on and off the court — during Irving’s rehab, with the exception offering a feasible avenue despite limited cap flexibility .

📝 Feature-Length Article

Headline:

“Mavericks Eye Chris Paul via Taxpayer Mid‑Level Exception Until Kyrie Returns,” Says Eric Pincus

By [Your Name], [Date]

Situation: Injured Star, Empty Backcourt Role

The Mavericks’ offseason took an unexpected twist when Kyrie Irving suffered an ACL tear this March. Experts estimate a January 2026 return, leaving Dallas in search of an experienced floor general to bridge the gap

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Cap Mechanics: Why the Taxpayer Exception?

Dallas is already operating near the NBA’s luxury tax threshold. As a result, they cannot utilize the larger Non‑Taxpayer MLE but retain access to the smaller Taxpayer MLE, valued around $5 million

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. This limits them to veteran-level compensatory contracts, but it remains their best tool to add a difference-maker at guard.

Target: Chris Paul, the Veteran Solution

Chris Paul, entering his 21st NBA season, has surprisingly remained reliable. With the Spurs last year, he played all 82 games (8.7 PPG, 7.6 APG) demonstrating durability and off-court leadership

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. Eric Pincus reports the Mavericks are actively considering him as the prime candidate to fill the void until Irving returns

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Pro & Con: Is Paul the Right Fit?

Pros: A poised floor general with elite pick‑and‑roll expertise; veteran voice for the locker room; perhaps open to a minimum or mid‑level deal

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Cons: Adding a third ball-handler could complicate rotations; MLE might be better used on wing or defensive upgrades

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Outlook & Timeline

With Irving’s return not expected until early next season, the timing aligns for Paul’s role to be impactful—even if temporary. Dallas can sign him, get critical guard depth, and seamlessly transition Irving back in midseason. If a deal materializes, expect an announcement in July or August 2025.

✅ Final Take

This approach—taking aim at a reliable all-star guard via the taxpayer MLE—is well-aligned with Dallas’s financial constraints and roster strategy. It’s a savvy, low-risk move that could help keep the Mavericks competitive while they await Irving’s return. And the fact it’s coming from Eric Pincus—a respected cap and NBA insider—adds more credibility to the narrative.