New York Knicks Receive: G Kyrie Irving

Indiana Pacers Receive: G Evan Fournier, 2023 First-Round Pick (PHI via BKN), 2023 First-Round Pick (NYK)

Brooklyn Nets Receive: C Myles Turner, F Julius Randle

At the beginning of 2021-22, Kyrie Irving’s refusal to get a COVID-19 vaccination rendered him unable to play in New York. The state eventually changed some legislation and he was permitted to play.

All of which makes this deal convenient. Irving doesn’t have to leave the state if this trade occurs.

Meanwhile, this would be a last-ditch effort for the Nets. If this deal doesn’t keep them in the title picture, it’s likely that a Kevin Durant trade request could follow. All the same, it has the potential to keep them in the title picture.

Much of that potential probably rests on Julius Randle’s shoulders. He followed up an outstanding 2020-21 campaign with a dreadful performance in 2021-22. If the 2020-21 version showed up in Brooklyn, the Nets could be better than they’ve been in their entire Kevin Durant era to date next season.

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If the 2021-22 version of Randle shows up, it could be the end of the Durant era.