Kyrie Irving was the main talking point of the Nets’ offseason until Kevin Durant requested a trade just before the opening of the 2022 NBA free agency. According to Brian Lewis of New York Post, Irving did not demand a trade as opposed to what was reported.
The swift point guard opted in the last year of his current deal and, per Lewis, and he did not want off the Nets hoping to remain in the team and play for a championship at least for next season. Despite his desire, Irving might be soon away from the Nets.
“Another source close to Irving told The Post that the All-Star point guard not only never asked for a trade, but has had every intention of playing for the Nets — with or without Durant,” Lewis reports.
Regardless of Irving’s reported desire to stay in Brooklyn, the trade talks have been a daily talking point. The seven-time All-Star has been heavily connected to the Los Angeles Lakers in trade talks, with Chris Haynes of Yahoo Sports reporting that the Nets and L.A. had discussions surrounding Irving.
According to a recent report, Brooklyn requires two first-round picks to trade Kyrie. The Los Angeles Lakers seem to be the only interesting party to secure the services of the All-Star point guard. Dallas and Philadelphia were also reported among potential suitors teams.
The star guard averaged 27.4 points and 5.8 assists last season. He was held to just 29 games after the Nets initially decided to hold him out of all games and practices due to his vaccination status that prevented him from playing in New York.
The Nets started last season with the potential of winning the NBA title, but the inability of Durant, Irving and James Harden to stay in the court demise the hope to bring the first NBA championship in Brooklyn.
Harden was traded to the Philadelphia 76ers in February, KD wants to be traded and Irving is rumored to be traded, perhaps ending Brooklyn’s championship window and foreshadowing a rebuild.
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