The Los Angeles Lakers’ pursuit of Kyrie Irving was a widely known endeavor not too long ago. They made attempts to acquire him through trades last summer and once again when he requested a midseason trade from the Brooklyn Nets.
Kyrie Irving Snubs Lakers Again: Is a Reunion with LeBron Still Possible?
Unfortunately, the last attempt fell through, and Kyrie Irving was eventually sent to the Dallas Mavericks a few days later. Despite attaching the All-Star guard to L.A. ho earlier this summer, he decided to re-sign Dallas as a free agent.
While the Lakers had a successful offseason, it appeared that their pursuit of Irving was in the past. However, according to Jovan Buha on “The Athletic NBA Show,” there is a possibility that the Irving-to-the-Lakers rumors might resurface during the upcoming season.
Kyrie Irving is one of the best players I've seen in the clutch… Just ridiculous shot making ability pic.twitter.com/jAEFqSc3gz
— 🏀 (@VelocityDimes) August 1, 2023
Fadeaway World reports that LeBron James remained a strong advocate for Kyrie even during the offseason, expressing that he and Kyrie had reconciled and that LeBron had a genuine interest in potentially playing alongside him again. It wouldn’t be surprising if these rumors gain traction closer to the trade deadline, especially depending on the situation in Dallas.
“LeBron was still pushing for Kyrie, as recently as this offseason… He’s made it very clear that he and Kyrie have made up… LeBron has really been very keen on potentially playing with Kyrie again. I would not be surprised if those rumors up again, closer to the trade deadline, depending on what happens at Dallas.”
The team has faced challenges in Kyrie Irving ‘s first few months with the Mavericks, as although he’s considered a dark horse contender, he’s had play-in competition in how Irving and Luka Doncic, both ball-dominant defenders, will mesh well on offense Questions continue to be raised.
The Lakers appear to have moved on, strengthening their roster in the offseason. But the possibility of a LeBron-Kyrie reunion continues to captivate fans, keeping the rumors alive. Irving’s choice to recommit to Dallas after seeking free agency shows his dedication to the Mavericks.
Viewers will no doubt be watching closely how he and Doncic coexist on the court as the next season unfolds. As fans eagerly await the upcoming season, the possibility of another Irving-to-the-Lakers speculation adds new excitement to the NBA landscape and only time will tell if fate will bring these two stars together again.