After another failed playoff run, the Brooklyn Nets are now on the verge of implosion as the entire NBA considers the future of star duo Kevin Durant and Kyrie Irving.
At this point, both players remain part of the Nets, but there is a sense within the community that it is only a matter of time before one, or both, are shipped out of town.
In fact, the latest report by Yahoo Sports’ Chris Haynes is that the Lakers and Nets are currently in talks for a deal that centers around Westbrook and Irving.
The Los Angeles Lakers and Brooklyn Nets are actively engaged in discussions on a trade package that would send star point guard Russell Westbrook to Brooklyn in exchange for star point guard Kyrie Irving, league sources told Yahoo Sports.
There’s palpable optimism that an agreement can be struck between the two sides this offseason, but there remain a few hurdles, sources said.
Draft compensation is an ongoing talking point for the Nets and they want shooting guard Joe Harris — who is recovering from left ankle surgery — and his remaining $38.6 million owed over the next two years included in the deal, sources said.
The Lakers have been disinclined to the inclusion of Harris, and are instead seeking the insertion of sharpshooter Seth Curry as part of the arrangement, sources said.
The Los Angeles Lakers and Brooklyn Nets are actively engaged in trade discussions centered on a Russell Westbrook-Kyrie Irving package, league sources tell @YahooSports: https://t.co/trNOzrmNbI
— Chris Haynes (@ChrisBHaynes) July 2, 2022
It is no secret that Kyrie Irving is working to get himself to the Lakers. After so much turmoil in Brooklyn, a reunion with LeBron James could be exactly what he needs right now.
But are the Lakers willing to give up what is necessary to get him? Westbrook, THT, and picks will likely not be enough to get the job done. They will have to get creative and very flexible if they want to pull this off.
If they can do it, though, the Lakers will be back on the map with an insane trio of LeBron James, Anthony Davis, and Kyrie Irving.
