"Kyrie’s like 'maybe I’ll just opt out and play for 6 million', he said 'go ahead'" - NBA analyst says Joe Tsai played chess with Kyrie Irving and won, claims he’s boxing Kevin Durant into a corner
Despite demands to leave, Kevin Durant and Kyrie Irving will likely remain with the Brooklyn Nets next season. NBA analyst Jason McIntyre believes Nets owner Joe Tsai has outsmarted his key players and forced them to stay.
Irving and the Nets failed to reach an agreement on an extension, resulting in the point guard exploring sign-and-trade options. Irving surprisingly opted into his player option. Before the start of free agency, Durant requested a trade. Neither player, however, has gotten their wish.
Although the Nets have entertained offers, their lofty demands have prevented teams from expressing serious interest.
On "The Herdline News with Colin Cowherd," Jason McIntyre shared his thoughts on how Tsai is handling things in Brooklyn. He commended the owner, saying he beat Irving in a hypothetical game of chess and boxed KD into a corner.
"You made a good point this week about the owners pushing back on the star players. The Nets owner is a billionaire, Joe Tsai, made a lot of money in his career. He played chess head-to-head with Kyrie Irving and won. Kyrie's like, 'Maybe I'll just opt out and go play for six million,' he said 'Go ahead, go do it. Kyrie comes back.
"Now, Kevin Durant says, 'Trade me.' And the owner, 'Okay. Well, we can't find any offers Kevin, what are you gonna do? You gonna come back and play for us? You gonna sit out?' I feel like Kevin Durant is being boxed into a corner here. This owner is doing a phenomenal job. I like this pushback."
Tsai has done his best to honor the requests of his players. However, he also operates in the organization's best interests, hoping to get the best value for his two superstars.
Would the Brooklyn Nets be favorites if Kevin Durant and Kyrie Irving stay?
The Nets have not gone all out in an attempt to bolster their roster. They still have two of the best talents in the league in Irving and Durant, along with Ben Simmons.
The 76ers traded Simmons to the Nets on February 10, but he has yet to suit up for the franchise. He is currently in recovery after undergoing back surgery.
REPORT: Ben Simmons is in “great spirits” after successful back surgery, via @NYPost_Lewis.
Simmons is expected to be ready for training camp. https://t.co/NG2XdQ3yZc
The prospect of Simmons, Irving and Durant playing together has been welcomed by many. Although Simmons is not a lethal scorer, his ability to defend and push the pace in transition will be a big boost for the Nets.
6'11" with these handles!
HBD Ben Simmons https://t.co/05zBXgbJ9l
If all three players play for the Nets next season, they could compete for the title.
"[The Brooklyn Nets] have a legitimate chance to win the East."
— Jalen Rose on what if Kevin Durant & Kyrie Irving stay together in Brooklyn
#NBATwitter #NetsWorld https://t.co/UmCPy3ivSv