Should the Brooklyn Nets approach Kyrie Irving about a potential trade?
Just a few weeks ago, the idea of the Brooklyn Nets trading Kyrie Irving would’ve seemed outlandish. However, that has slowly become more and more of a possibility over the last couple of weeks.
And the biggest sign of that potential took place Wednesday night when Kyrie “cleared the air” with his Instagram Live. During his Live, Kyrie specifically said that he isn’t retiring. Which could be all the Nets needed to hear before moving forward with seeking a trade.
Just a few days ago, it was reported that Kyrie would likely retire if he was traded. Kyrie said the exact opposite during his Live. Of course, I’m not sure he was talking even with the possibility of a trade in mind.
Regardless, the Nets should at least bring up the idea to Kyrie behind closed doors. The Nets would be doing the rest of this team a disservice if they didn’t. Kyrie has made it loud and clear that he doesn’t plan on getting vaccinated and the Nets have made it clear that if he isn’t eligible to play in home games, he would not be allowed to be part of the team.
Those two things can’t coexist without the other. Meaning, if things continue as they currently are, Kyrie won’t be playing any games this season.
If that’s the case, the Nets have a negative asset on the roster – and one whose contract can be terminated after this season (Kyrie has a player option for next season).
The Nets have a big goal of winning a championship this season. While there’s still a chance that they can do that with Kevin Durant and James Harden leading the way, it really doesn’t make sense for them to keep Kyrie on the roster if he can’t play this season.
Kyrie would be better off on another team.
After all, Kyrie isn’t making the decision to not play basketball this season; he’s making the decision to not be vaccinated. A byproduct of that decision is not being able to play for the Nets.
But that may not be the case for another team. A trade will solve plenty of issues for Kyrie and the Nets. And perhaps the door is open for one. We should find out over the course of the next few weeks.