NBA News: Brooklyn Nets make it clear to other teams that they intend to keep Kyrie Irving

Brooklyn Nets inform other teams that they plan to keep Kyrie Irving on their team amidst all the trade rumors

Kyrie Irving in a file photo. (Image credits: twitter)
By Godwin Matthew | Aug 22, 2022 | 3 Min Read follow icon Follow Us

Kyrie Irving has been in the headlines this offseason as he was linked to a move away from the Brooklyn Nets. However, according to the latest report by Shams Charania, the franchise has informed the interested teams that they do not intend to trade the seven-time All-Star. The 30-year-old was eligible for a max contract extension in the summer. But the team refused to give him the deal citing his availability issues.

The Nets team have been under a lot of pressure this summer due to Kevin Durant’s trade request. Amidst that, they were even on the verge of losing Kyrie Irving as the LA Lakers were determined to make a trade for him. But the latest news report has given many a clarity that the 2016 NBA champion would be Brooklyn bound for at least a while.

The interest from the Lakers was certainly an interesting proposition for Kyrie Irving as he would get to reunite with LeBron James. The duo were sensational during their stint together as part of the Cleveland Cavaliers. However, the seven-time All-Star had many a times already expressed his desire of staying in Brooklyn.

Kyrie Irving’s availability has always been in question, but aside from that, he is a phenomenal talent. His ability to handle the ball and score baskets is unparalleled. Last season in just 29 games, he averaged 27.4 PPG and scored over fifty points twice in a matter of a week.

The Nets fans are surrounded by uncertainties with the KD trade situation. But this news about Kyrie Irving will certainly prove to be a huge relief for them.

How valuable is Kyrie Irving to the Brooklyn Nets?

Kyrie Irving is one of the best point guards in the league. His handles are stellar and he can also score baskets with ease. The former first overall pick has been in the league for over a decade and is well-versed with all that takes to win. He can be the leader of the Nets team and help them get to great success.

Another big positive for the Nets is the return of Ben Simmons and Joe Harris. Both these players will bring their two-way abilities and help strengthen the team. Irving being a point guard will have a lot of options he can pass the ball to. The Nets team is stacked with shooters, which will enable him to kick the ball out and find an open player who can score baskets.

The next season is going to be a big one for Kyrie Irving. Last time around, the vaccine mandate forced him to sit out for more than half the season. However, heading into the 2022-23 season, he will have to prove his ability. A lot of critics have slammed him for being unavailable for the team. He was even refused a max extension for the same reason. But the seven-time All-Star has a chance to silence all his doubters next season. If he is able to play at his best, the Nets will be a side to watch out for in the East.