The NBA trade deadline is quickly approaching, and teams across the league are making moves to strengthen their rosters for the playoffs. The Los Angeles Clippers have now joined the hunt for Brooklyn Nets star Kyrie Irving, and the Lakers, Mavericks, and Suns are also in the mix. With the Nets determined to find a deal before Thursday’s deadline, the race to acquire Kyrie is heating up.
Kyrie Irving has made it known that he wants out of Brooklyn, and the Nets have been exploring trade options with a variety of teams. While Irving has not given the Nets a list of preferred destinations, there is a strong mutual interest between him and the Lakers that dates back to the summer. The Lakers are motivated to make a deal, and LeBron James is an ardent supporter of bringing his former Cavaliers teammate to LA.
The Nets are eager to find a deal that will keep them competitive, especially with All-Star Kevin Durant’s return from injury on the horizon. Irving, who is in the final year of a deal that pays him $36.9 million, has been seeking a four-year, $198.5 million maximum extension, which is available to him until June 30. If he is traded, Irving is eligible to sign a two-year, $78.6 million extension with his new team until June 30.
Kyrie Irving is currently averaging 27.1 points, 5.3 assists, and 5.1 rebounds per game this season. With the trade deadline fast approaching, the Clippers, Lakers, Mavericks, and Suns are all vying to acquire the All-Star point guard. The race is on to see which team will be able to secure Kyrie Irving before the deadline on Thursday.
Source: www.espn.com