Kyrie Irving Could Leave Nets; Clippers, Lakers, Knicks Suitors

Kyrie Irving, LA Clippers, Brooklyn Nets, New York Knicks, NBA Trade Rumors
NBA Analysis Network

The Brooklyn Nets and Kyrie Irving have had a relationship filled with ups and downs throughout the three years since he signed his contract. Despite never making it out of the first round, it appears their time together could be coming to an end altogether this NBA offseason.

According to The Athletic’s Shams Charania, the contract talks between Irving and the Nets have reached an “impasse” and he will consider options in the open marketplace.

“But one of the most anticipated free-agency situations involves Brooklyn’s Kyrie Irving, who has a June 29 deadline on his $36.9 million player option for the 2022-23 season. However, multiple sources tell The Athletic that conversations about Irving’s future have gone stagnant between him and the Nets. An impasse currently exists among the parties that clears the way for the seven-time All-Star to consider the open marketplace, those sources said.”

The Los Angeles Lakers, New York Knicks, and LA Clippers are expected to be among suitors for Irving if he were to play elsewhere.

“The Lakers, Knicks, and Clippers are expected to be among the interested suitors if Irving heads elsewhere, multiple sources tell The Athletic.”

LATEST NBA NEWS AND TRADE RUMORS: Where Lakers, Knicks, Clippers Rank Among Nets’ Kyrie Irving Free Agency Landing Spots

With how complicated it would be to navigate the hard cap in sign-and-trade scenarios, the Nets would likely need to preemptively clear salary to be able to take on extra salary in a deal.

In the event the Nets do create flexibility, the Los Angeles Lakers could potentially be the cleanest trade partner when considering they already have an All-Star caliber replacement in Russell Westbrook. Kevin Durant has an extensive history as teammates with him during their OKC Thunder days.

The LA Clippers do not have star talent to offer in a sign-and-trade and they are backed up with a massive payroll. They’d be able to send a combination of role players in a trade package, but otherwise, they’d be limited.

LATEST NBA NEWS AND TRADE RUMORS: Where Lakers, Knicks, Clippers Rank Among Nets’ Kyrie Irving Free Agency Landing Spots

The New York Knicks have the cleanest financial path to being a Kyrie Irving suitor and could make the most sense if he’s set on staying in New York City in general. He could team up with RJ Barrett and likely Julius Randle and compete in the Eastern Conference.

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