Could this former Duke duo breakup before they begin?

TL;DR

The Dallas Mavericks have appointed Masai Ujiri as their new president and alternate governor. Ujiri, known for his successful trades and drafting, may consider moving on from Kyrie Irving as he builds around rookie Cooper Flagg.

Key points

Dallas Mavericks hire Masai Ujiri as president and alternate governor
Ujiri has a successful record of 690-504 as an executive
Known for his scouting and drafting skills
Ujiri may consider moving on from Kyrie Irving
Focus on building around rookie Cooper Flagg

Mentioned in this story

Dallas MavericksToronto RaptorsDenver NuggetsMasai UjiriKyrie IrvingCooper FlaggKawhi LeonardSan Antonio Spurs

The rest of the NBA took notice Monday when the Dallas Mavericks signed former Toronto Raptors president Masai Ujiri to be their new president and alternate governor.

In 15 seasons as an executive between the Raptors and Denver Nuggets, Ujiri's teams have a record of 690-504. Ujiri is most well-known for his scouting and drafting prowess in addition to successful trades.

One of those trades resulted in a championship (2019), with Ujiri and the Raptors acquiring Kawhi Leonard from the San Antonio Spurs. Now tasked with building around Cooper Flagg, could Ujiri move on from a former Blue Devil?

Why the Mavericks could move on from Kyrie Irving

Taking into account Dallas' 12th-place finish in the Western Conference last season, Ujiri may be compelled to trade away veterans. This would help the Mavericks stockpile draft capital to surround Flagg with players who fit their future timeline much better.

Besides Kyrie Irving, the Mavericks have few players who fit that bill. Daniel Gafford, PJ Washington and Klay Thompson may also fall under that category, but they wouldn't fetch near the same return that Irving would.

Q&A

Why did the Dallas Mavericks hire Masai Ujiri?

The Mavericks hired Masai Ujiri for his extensive experience and success in scouting, drafting, and executing trades, including winning a championship with the Raptors.

What impact could Masai Ujiri have on Kyrie Irving's future with the Mavericks?

Masai Ujiri may consider moving on from Kyrie Irving as he focuses on building the team around rookie Cooper Flagg.

What is Masai Ujiri's record as an NBA executive?

Masai Ujiri has a record of 690-504 over 15 seasons as an NBA executive with the Raptors and Nuggets.