Is Kyrie Irving already crafting his exit from the Cleveland Cavaliers?
The Cavs guard has told some of his USA Basketball teammates that he might be willing to push for a trade, especially if he believes Cleveland’s run could end with LeBron James leaving the team after next season, the Chicago Sun-Times’ Joe Cowley reported Tuesday.
James can opt out of his contract next summer, and his departure would all but shut Cleveland’s championship window, leaving teammates to decide between fight or flight.
Perhaps Irving has made up his mind. Then again, his contract could keep him in Cleveland beyond James’ potential exit. Irving’s deal expires after the 2018-19 campaign and includes a player option for 2019-20.
Cowley also reported that Irving would be willing to join Jimmy Butler in Chicago, although the Bulls and Cavs likely would have to include a third team to facilitate a trade.
Thumbnail photo via Kyle Terada/USA TODAY Sports Images
