LeBron James Could Become Reason Kyrie Irving Doesn’t Get Traded to the Lakers, as per Reports

The Kyrie Irving situation has got the whole basketball world talking. The Brooklyn Nets superstar has officially asked for a trade and there are a host of teams looking to land his signature. One of them is the Los Angeles Lakers. A LeBron James and Irving reunion has been on the cards for quite some time and it seems this time it can really happen. Although fans and players might be enthusiastic about Irving potentially joining the Lakers, the reality might hit them hard.

Various experts and analysts have ruled out the trade. Moreover, it seems LeBron’s contract might come in the way of Irving. The former NBA champion is looking forward to a long maximum deal but this is not what the team wants to offer.

LeBron James’ latest contract poses as a roadblock for Kyrie Irving

Four-time NBA champion LeBron James has a long history with Kyrie Irving. The two played together for the Cleveland Cavaliers and led them to their first and only NBA title in 2016. A reunion might be good for both players this season.

However, LeBron’s two-year contract might ruin the party. One of the biggest reasons why Irving wants to leave the Nets is his contract and this might pose a problem when he joins a new team.

According to reports, Irving wants a four-year maximum contract while the Lakers prefer a two-year deal. This is because James is signed to a two-year $97.1 million deal according to CNBC.

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The trade deadline is on the 9th of February and it will be interesting to see what the Lakers’ front office resorts to with some other teams in the league looking to get hold of Kyrie Irving. 

Popular analyst makes a bold prediction surrounding Irving

Popular ESPN analyst Stephen A. Smith is one of the boldest media personalities out there. During a recent appearance on ‘NBA Countdown’, Smith talked about Irving and how he will sit out the rest of the season.

He said, “Kyrie Irving is prepared to sit out the rest of the season if need be. That’s what I’m being told.” Interestingly, this is something Irving’s teammate Ben Simmons had resorted to. He sat out the entirety of the 2021-22 NBA season with the Philadelphia 76ers before joining the Brooklyn Nets.

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What are your thoughts on the Kyrie Irving trade saga? Let us know in the comments down below.