NBA Free Agency: Assessing Kyrie Irving's most likely landing spots
When Kyrie Irving joined the Boston Celtics back in 2017, it looked as though the then 25-year-old would become the face of the franchise for the next decade. However, despite being equipped with his much-desired own team, Irving has refused to commit his future to Boston, and it appears increasingly likely that he will leave this summer.
Over the 18/19 regular season, Irving averaged 23.8 points, 6.9 assists and 5.0 rebounds per game, and at 27, Irving is expected to command a max deal in free agency this summer. There is no shortage of quality playmakers who are set to hit the market this summer, although Irving is viewed as the crown jewel -- someone who can help a team to contend next season.
Due to this, Irving is generating a lot of interest around the NBA, and here we will look at the three teams most likely to sign him this summer.
#3 Brooklyn Nets
The Brooklyn Nets enjoyed a fantastic 18/19 season, as a young roster defied a slow start to qualify for the postseason. During the Western Conference first round, the Nets were defeated by the Philadelphia Sixers in five games, yet, the team appears to have a bright future.
If the Nets renounce the rights to D’Angelo Russell and trade away Allen Crabbe, they will also have the room to add two max free agents -- and according to SportsNet New York, the Nets are among the contenders to sign Irving:
Several league sources have told SNY that top-tier free agents, including Kevin Durant, Kawhi Leonard and Tobias Harris, will at least consider Brooklyn this upcoming July when it’s time to find their next home – if they decide to leave. Making the playoffs definitely helped their chances, one source said.
The Nets may be hesitant to waive Russell, although with his long-term future in doubt anyway, it is likely that the Nets would be willing to sacrifice him to bring in Irving.