LeBron James and Kyrie Irving. For a long time, they were one of the best duos in the NBA. Their divorce was acrimonious, but we can’t take away from what they accomplished together on the Cleveland Cavaliers.
They were so potent together that we’ve long wondered if they’d reunite – even after a fiery breakup. Still, it’s recently felt like those rumors could finally be put to rest.
Irving has finally found a home on the Dallas Mavericks – hasn’t he? Time will tell. The Mavericks have been a bit underwhelming in 2023-24. If they got the right offer, they could entertain moving Irving.
Could they send him to the Los Angeles Lakers to reunite with James?
NBA Trade Proposal: Los Angeles Lakers Land Dallas Mavericks’ Kyrie Irving
Dallas Mavericks Receive: G D’Angelo Russell, F Rui Hachimura, 2029 First-Round Pick (LAL)
Los Angeles Lakers Receive: G Kyrie Irving
The chemistry that James and Irving developed together is hard to come by. You can put two of the most talented basketball players in the world on the same team. That doesn’t necessarily mean that they’ll play well together.
Just look at the Mavericks. Doncic and Irving don’t always seem to complement each other. At times, it’s felt like they each play in a silo. An elite duo isn’t taking turns – they’re working together. Can the Mavericks’ duo get there?
NBA NEWS & TRADE RUMORS: Kyrie Irving, Dallas Mavericks, Los Angeles Lakers Updates
Absolutely. The Mavericks can get there – but they might want to do so quickly. Doncic trade rumors have been quiet recently, but if Dallas doesn’t turn this thing around, they could rear their ugly heads.
Does this deal help the Mavericks stave off those rumors?
Why The Dallas Mavericks Do The Deal
Perhaps not. This deal isn’t likely to make Dallas a better team. Although it could be a case of addition by subtraction. If Doncic and Irving aren’t developing chemistry, increasing Doncic’s usage may make them a better team.
Besides, the Mavericks aren’t leaving Doncic on an island. Russell is a capable secondary playmaker. Meanwhile, the Mavs could use a big, athletic wing like Hachimura on their roster. His defensive value should help them on a short-term basis as well.
NBA NEWS & TRADE RUMORS: Kyrie Irving, Dallas Mavericks, Los Angeles Lakers Updates
Still, the most important thing for the Mavericks here is to land an unprotected first-rounder. With this pick coming from an aging Lakers team, it’s going to be an especially valuable asset.
Should the Lakers part with it?
Why The Los Angeles Lakers Do The Deal
Yes. This isn’t complicated for the Lakers. James is approaching the end of his career. Yet, he still looks like a superstar. The Lakers need to try to maximize this window before it’s permanently closed.
This would be a major talent upgrade. Irving is comfortably the best player in this deal. Meanwhile, the Lakers don’t need to worry about his chemistry with James. They already know that this duo can lead a title run.
NBA NEWS & TRADE RUMORS: Kyrie Irving, Dallas Mavericks, Los Angeles Lakers Updates
Is this farfetched? It might be. The Mavericks may prefer to keep trying this duo out. That’s not our concern – we’re simply saying that if Irving is available, the Lakers should want him. After all, he and James are one of the best duos in the history of the league.
