Kyrie Irving and Brooklyn Nets at Impasse on Contract, Lakers, Knicks, and Clippers ready to pounce
The Brooklyn Nets and star guard Kyrie Irving appear to be on the verge of parting ways. Initially, it was thought that he would sign an extension with the team this summer, but according to Shams Charania, Kyrie and the Nets are at an “impasse,” with the Lakers, Knicks, and Clippers all waiting to pounce:
GM Sean Marks stated that he wanted players in Brooklyn who are available on a consistent basis, implying that Irving was unavailable for a significant portion of last season because of his immunization status. However, given that he has spent more time on the bench than on the court in recent years, the Nets are understandably hesitant to offer him a hefty contract.
Irving has a $36.5 million player option for 2022-23, and as Shams pointed out, the Lakers and Clippers are likely to try to sign him if he chooses to exercise it. However, because of the Lakers’ financial condition, a trade would be required. Depending on what Brooklyn wants to prioritize, the Knicks may go in a number of directions.
It will surely be a tremendous blow if Irving departs the Nets and tests free agency. They won’t be able to find a legitimate running companion for Kevin Durant, who is still hoping to lead Brooklyn to victory. Plus, when Ben Simmons returns from injury, we have no idea what to anticipate from him.
In 2021-22, Irving appeared in only 29 games, averaging 27.4 points, 5.8 assists, and 4.4 rebounds while shooting 42 percent from three-point range. In the playoffs, he struggled to score, averaging only 21.3 points per game as the Celtics swept the Nets in the first round. If Kyrie Irving’s tenure in Brooklyn comes to an end, all eyes will be on Kevin Durant’s future.