Talking about Kyrie Irving means discussing a player who is special, and as we know, not only for his basketball. Far from embracing the ordinary, both on the court and off it he is a box of surprises that astonishes fans and, in turn, creates different currents of opinion. Well, beyond that context, the reality is that his basketball talents continue to stand out and are now highlighted as the NBA’s top prize.
Following major movements recently by LeBron James, Jaylen Brown, Giannis Antetokounmpo or LaMelo Ball, the 34-year-old guard is seen as a disruptive element for several teams who view him as an intriguing addition. Therefore, and according to Marc Stein, Irving’s situation remains under close watch.
Although the Dallas Mavericks have so far rejected the trade proposals that have come their way for the nine-time All-Star, front offices of other franchises wonder whether that stance will stay as firm as the trade deadline approaches (February 11). It isn’t that Irving will be a worse player then, but that he may not fit at 34 with a project around Cooper Flagg (19).
Houston and Detroit, at the forefront for Irving
Among the teams that have drawn up a plan to acquire Kyrie, Detroit Pistons and Houston Rockets stand out. The former believes that adding offensive creation is more than necessary to relieve a bit of Cade Cunningham. They’re not wrong, since in the playoffs he looked exhausted at times.
As for the Texas teams, the situation is even clearer. Last season they spent the entire year suffering without Fred VanVleet and now they could use him as a bargaining chip to improve. The deal would fit financially, but obviously Houston would need to send some first-round pick to their Dallas neighbors to persuade them. And yes, they would reunite Durant and Irving, who were together in Brooklyn.
