Lakers ‘Most Significant Threat’ For Kyrie Irving, ‘Sweet Spot’ Still Possible With Nets

The Los Angels Lakers have emerged as the most “significant threat” to acquire Kyrie Irving should he be unable to come to terms on a deal with the Brooklyn Nets. The Lakers lack the cap flexibility to sign Irving to a commensurate contract, which makes the situation complicated for Irving financially. Irving has a $36.5 million player option for the 22-23 season with the Nets. 

“The Lakers are considered the most significant threat right now for Kyrie Irving, but that would essentially entail him taking $30 million less than he can opt into in Brooklyn,” said Wojnarowski on NBA Today. “There’s a $6 million taxpayer exemption he can sign with the Lakers. Now, most people would say a player is not going to give up that much money, but Kyrie Irving gave up nearly $17 million last year because of his refusal to get vaccinated. He’s in the process of losing a shoe deal with Nike.

“I think the Nets have gone into this with their eyes open that it’s possible he can walk. He’s done things differently in his career, but I think there’s a sweet spot for the Nets and Kyrie Irving to find a deal. If they don’t, how does that impact Kevin Durant’s future with the Nets. All of that is at stake this week.”

The Nets are hesitant to sign Irving to a long-term deal.