Featured image: John Minchillo / Associated Press
Something big is brewing in the NBA. With the trade deadline coming up, some teams could look to add talent in hopes of improving their rosters. Now, there is another name in the mix.
According to reports, Brooklyn Nets guard Kyrie Irving has requested a trade.
Irving is in the final year of his four-year, $136.4 million deal that he signed with the Nets, and there was an extension in the works, but things fell through. Shams Charania of The Athletic was a guest on The Pat McAfee Show and discussed the talks between Irving and the Nets.
“The Nets offered Kyrie Irving a contract extension that had some stipulations in it.. I’m told that his side was vehemently against any stipulations in an extension”
Over the summer, Irving had the chance to opt-out of his contract. He wanted a sign-and-trade but as time went on, Irving opted into his deal.
“Normal people keep the world going, but those who dare to be different lead us into tomorrow,” Irving said in the summer. “I’ve made my decision to opt in. See you in the fall. A11even.”
Since then, he has averaged 27.1 points, 5.3 rebound and 5.1 assists. One of his best games this season was a 48-point game against the Utah Jazz in January. Despite being suspended at one point, Irving has been a valuable contributor to the Nets.
The Nets are fourth in the East with a record of 31-20. They are currently playing with Kevin Durant, who is out with an MCL sprain in his right knee. The Nets are in an interesting position, and it will be interesting to see how they respond.