The Los Angeles Lakers have a lot in their hands this offseason, trying to figure out what to do with Russell Westbrook while also being linked with a move for Kyrie Irving. These two situations could prompt the front office to try to move Russ in a deal that brings Kyrie to Los Angeles, but that’s not so easy to accomplish.
Recent reports suggest that the pursuit of Kyrie has slowed down for the Lakers, but the Purple and Gold could still make a push for the 2016 NBA champion. According to NBA insider Marc Stein, LeBron James is still keen to land Irving this offseason and replace Russell Westbrook.
LeBron’s relationship with Russ isn’t the best, according to reports, and James’ desire to reunite with Kyrie has played a big role in that. The King knows the Lakers need to make some changes to be competitive and, just like the fanbase, he’s convinced that moving Russ is crucial for their title aspirations.
REPORT: LeBron James still “badly” wants Kyrie Irving to take Russell Westbrook’s place on the Lakers.
(via @TheSteinLine, https://t.co/Kn5wJhte9i) pic.twitter.com/N8Wwvi71cV
— Legion Hoops (@LegionHoops) July 29, 2022
“LeBron James still “badly” wants Kyrie Irving to take Russell Westbrook’s place on the Lakers.”
Just like he’s apparently doing with free agents, Kevin Durant is stopping a Kyrie move somewhere else. Until the player’s fate gets determined, Kyrie will stay on the Nets, and even if KD goes to a different team, Irving is said to want to continue with Brooklyn even without No. 7.
But still, he’s reportedly interested in a reunion with LeBron and that could happen this offseason if things fall into place for the Lakers. They know that adding Kyrie would boost their title chances, but we have to sit and wait if they can pull off this move.
Meanwhile, the Lakers are trying to work with what they have right now, as Darvin Ham has vowed to make Russell a better fit for the squad next season.
