“I’ve made my decision to opt-in” Kyrie Irving breaks silence on decision to remain with Brooklyn Nets
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Kyrie Irving
Kyrie Irving and Brooklyn Nets contract situation had been dragged so long since their early exit from the 2022 playoffs. But the player finally opted into his contract with the team, ending all trade-speculations surrounding him in the future. Amid strong rumors of a potential sign and trade to the Lakers, the 30-year old star point guard agrees to return to the Nets. After the decision, Kyrie will be playing for Brooklyn at least for 1 more season and will earn $36.5 million in 2022-23.
This is certainly good news for the franchise, as they could now focus more on the upcoming season and may look to utilize the high-potential team at their disposal. The team was at risk of losing Irving in the offseason, and also at risk of losing Kevin Durant.
“Brooklyn Nets star Kyrie Irving is opting into his $37 million player option for the 2022-23 season, [The Athletic] and [Stadium] has learned,” Charania said per his Twitter account on June 27. “Irving is bypassing on multiple opt-in and trade scenarios to fulfill his four-year commitment to the Nets and Kevin Durant.”
After signing his new deal, Irving broke his silence on the situation via Twitter. Irving posted that GIF to the social media platform after the news broke that he’d be staying in Brooklyn. The Nets fan base would certainly be fired up with the end to weeks of uncertainty around the franchise.
Kyrie Irving staying put to help Kevin Durant and Brooklyn Nets break the shackles
Former Rookie of the season has been sensational for the Brooklyn Nets, whenever he set foot on the court. There is no doubt about his abilities and capabilities to win games for the franchise but was questioned over his commitments over the period. Now that the so-called Covid situation and injuries concerns are a story of the past, Kyrie might be able to give his 100% to the team.
This could be seen as a very positive sign for the franchise, which was looking at the fruitful output from the union of Kevin Durant and Kyrie Irving back in 2019. The team also added Ben Simmons, who hardly touched the ball for the Nets, and could also be available for the season, allowing Steve Nash to unleash his best set of players on the floor.
As for the contract, Irving said, “Normal people keep the world going, but those who dare to be different lead us into tomorrow. I’ve made my decision to opt in. See you in the fall. A11even.” Despite all “wrong” rumors, Irving has emphatically agreed to remain in Brooklyn for the final season of his four-year contract, which he signed back in 2019.
As per current scenarios, 2016 NBA Champion Kyrie received permission from the Nets to seek a sign and trade deal from the franchise. But after playing for limited games in 2 seasons for various reasons, most teams were skeptical about giving him a long-term contract, and eventually, he could not find a deal to his liking. This failed attempt is said to be the primary reason for his re-signing with Brooklyn Nets.
Irving featured in a total of 103 games during the regular season for the Nets in 3 seasons. When available, he averaged 27.4 points, which is his personal best performance over the 11 years career. He also added 4.4 rebounds, and 5.8 assists per game while shooting at a 41.8% clip from 3-point range.
Now after the 2023 season, Irving will hit unrestricted free agency, unless he signs an extension with the organization before June 30, or the Nets look to trade him in the middle of his contract period.
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Kunal Chawda
(600 Articles Published)