This is a very bold move from the Nets, but one they have to make.
I am not sure how any time can be comfortable giving Kyrie a long-term extension, but some are desperate to make a trade even though recent history has shown since he hit the game-winning 3 against the Warriors in the 2016 NBA Finals has been more of a detriment to teams than an asset.
Will that change on his next team?
We shall see.
Kristian Winfield reports that the Nets have given Kyrie and his team the go-ahead to seek out a sign and trade.
Irving’s camp has requested and received permission from the Nets to speak with other teams about sign-and-trade packages, according to multiple sources familiar with the situation.
The belief among both league and player circles is that Irving is gone and the Seven-Eleven Era is over before it ever began.
The question now begs which team will Kyrie end up on.
The Athletic has an update on that.
The report comes just days before the 2022 NBA Draft on Thursday, and Marks historically tends to make deals during draft week. Charania reported the New York Knicks, Los Angeles Lakers and LA Clippers would all be interested in Irving should he hit the open market. Like Brooklyn, both Los Angeles teams are well into the luxury tax and lack draft assets to trade. Because of the hard cap, neither LA team could sign Irving if he declines his player option and becomes a free agent. For Irving to head west, he would need to opt into his player option and then be traded. The problem for the Nets with replacing Irving is each team has their own share of role players to offer in a sign-and-trade, but no sole player who is likely available can replace his talent.
I believe that Kevin Durant can win a title without Kyrie Irving, but the Nets are going to have to be very shrewd with their moves.
Flip the page for a video of Kyrie not answering if he wants to be with NETS or not.
