Kyrie Irving reportedly exercised his player option, which initially suggested he could be staying on with the Brooklyn Nets. However, the decision was also seen as a potential step toward something bigger, and according to a new report, that appears to be the case.
The Los Angeles Lakers and Brooklyn Nets are “actively engaged” in discussions about a potential blockbuster trade involving Irving and Russell Westbrook, NBA insider Chris Haynes of Yahoo Sports reported, citing unnamed league sources. International Business Times could not independently verify this information.
The potential deal would send Irving to Los Angeles and Westbrook to Brooklyn. Sources told the outlet that there’s “optimism” that both sides can agree on a deal this offseason.
But while the player exchange makes sense, some details need to be ironed out.
The Nets seek draft compensation and want Joe Harris as well as the $38.6 million he is owed for the next two seasons included in the deal, sources said.
For their part, the Lakers want Seth Curry as part of the deal that the two NBA teams are trying to pull off, according to the sources.
If the trade happens, Irving would reunite with LeBron James. They played together during their time with the Cleveland Cavaliers, including that 2016 NBA title conquest.
Add Anthony Davis, and the Lakers would have a daunting Big Three for the coming season. However, the purple and gold are aware that they still have to complement their stars with a proper supporting cast.
Curry could be a good addition as he can provide offense when called upon. The same goes for Harris, who has been known to knock down shots.
In all, it appears the Lakers will once again have to consider giving up a future draft pick. Back in January, the Lakers’ plans to move Westbrook to the Houston Rockets for John Wall fizzled with Los Angeles not wanting to include a future pick in the deal, Zach Lowe of ESPN reported.
The Lakers could face the same hurdle this time around, and it remains to be seen if the purple and gold will agree.
As for the Nets, the move would reunite Westbrook with Kevin Durant. Both played together for the Oklahoma City Thunder from 2008 to 2016.
The 2017 NBA MVP would also be the next former Thunder teammate that Durant would be playing with, given that James Harden did the same last NBA season. All eyes will also be on the duo to see if they can co-exist – assuming the trade does materialize.
Photo: Getty Images | Jim McIsaac
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