Kyrie Irving is once again making headlines, after requesting to be traded out of the Brooklyn Nets. The 8x NBA All-Star is in his last season with the Nets. Kyrie’s announcement signals his desire to not play for the Nets for the remainder of the season. However, Kendrick Perkins has blasted the Nets guard for making the request on NBA Today. It is a day of great significance, as it is Michael Jordan’s day, the greatest player in the NBA.
The Brooklyn Nets and Kyrie Irving are looking great this season in the Eastern Conference. However, the injury sustained by Kevin Durant happens to be a speed bump for the New York outfits. According to ESPN insider, Adrian Wojnarowski, Kyrie is looking for a trade out of the Nets. “Brooklyn Nets star Kyrie Irving has told the franchise that he wants to be traded ahead of Thursday’s deadline,” said Wojnarowski.
The reason behind Kyrie’s request to be traded out of the Nets is still unclear, it looks like it has to do with the contract extension. The Nets are hesitant to offer Kyrie a max extension given his behavior. Kyrie in the past has been suspended by the Nets on several occasions, and worries about his commitment to the franchise. The Nets have suspended Kyrie for antisemitic remarks on Twitter and for failing to follow COVID-19 protocols.
Kendrick Perkins:
"This is Kyrie Irving: A guy that you cannot trust… This is supposed to be MJ day, and we're here dealing with Kyrie Irving again."
(via @ESPNNBA) pic.twitter.com/ai1o2uWOye
— Legion Hoops (@LegionHoops) February 3, 2023
“This is Kyrie Irving: a guy that you cannot trust … This is supposed to be MJ day, and we’re here dealing with Kyrie Irving again.” Kendrick Perkins said on ESPN’s NBA Today, on Kyrie making headlines, on a day celebrated as Michael Jordan Day. For reference, today’s date, 2/3/23, is significant to Michael Jordan’s jersey no. 23, during his time with the Chicago Bulls.
Which teams are supposedly looking to sign Kyrie Irving?
It is no surprise that with Kyrie’s desire to leave the Nets, have teams looking to sign the guard. Upto 5 teams are looking at the option to sign Kyrie from the Nets. On top of the List is the Los Angeles Lakers, who have shown their desire to sign Kyrie. The deal will most likely see Russell Westbrook go the other way with 2 first-round picks. The Lakers are desperate to get their season going.
ESPN Sources: Brooklyn’s Kyrie Irving has not shared a list of preferred teams, but he has maintained an interest in the Lakers. LA is expected to be among the teams that’ll explore a possible trade with the Nets.
— Adrian Wojnarowski (@wojespn) February 3, 2023
The Phoenix Suns are seeing an ownership change, with new owner Mat Ishbia. They are looking to replace Chris Paul who has slumped this season and will be heading the other way. The Dallas Mavericks are keen to sign another star alongside Luka Doncic. He is taking a toll after carrying the team alone this season. The deal may involve Spencer Dinwiddie going the other way.
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