Kyrie Irving’s future has been one of the biggest storylines in the NBA this offseason, and it looks like the star guard’s tumultuous tenure with the Brooklyn Nets is set to come to an end. While previously it seemed like Kyrie might end up staying for one more year after he opted into his player option, Kevin Durant’s trade request has led to him wanting out as well.
The Lakers seem to be Kyrie’s preferred landing spot, and they also seem to be the only team interested in making a move for him. That led to many wondering how much the Nets could realistically get in return for him, as they don’t have a lot of leverage, but Zach Lowe had a different perspective on the situation.
Zach Lowe on ESPN:
“If I’m the Nets, I say, you have LeBron & AD guess what? That’s not enough to win the championship. You need Kyrie. We’re gonna sit back and wait till you give us both 1st round picks… If it takes all season, it takes all season.
(via @ZachLowe_NBA) pic.twitter.com/nLCfocLO5v
— Legion Hoops (@LegionHoops) July 8, 2022
It is an interesting way to look at it, as the Lakers do need to make some moves if they are to contend for a title. They did win it all in 2020 with LeBron James and Anthony Davis leading the way, but that doesn’t seem all that likely anymore, even if it was just two years back. So it is no surprise that James has been putting pressure on the team to get a deal done, as he is aware they need more talent.
The Nets can just stand pat until the Lakers give them the draft picks they want, as whatever they get in return for Kyrie in terms of players is hardly going to move the needle as far as they are concerned for next season. They are also operating with the possibility that both Durant and Irving will be on the team next season as they don’t seem to be in any hurry to get them out of town for less than optimal value. It’s all shaping up to be a crazy couple of months here.
