Kyrie Irving’s potential team-up with LeBron James at Lakers in jeopardy, as team eyes two other stars
Kyrie Irving and the Los Angeles Lakers will have a tough time getting together as the team has its eyes set on Austin Reaves and Rui Hachimura.
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Kyrie Irving for the Dallas Mavericks (GETTY)
A reunion between Kyrie Irving and LeBron James doesn’t seem to be on the cards for NBA Fans. While talks of trade for the point guard have boiled down to just two teams, Dallas Mavericks and LA Lakers, there’s still a long way to go. The 31-year-old Mavericks star Irving has been the talk of the town this postseason, despite not qualifying for the playoffs. While his career has lately been marred with controversies, he still remains one of the most highly sought-after players. But his stardom comes to an end when the Lakers’ priority kicks in.
Rui Hachimura and Austin Reaves, the young megastars of the Lakers franchise, made a name for themselves and put their talents on display this postseason. While Reaves was promoted to the starting line-up thanks to his masterful performances. Hachimura’s backing brought the team to a whole other level. The players starred in the playoffs and were present when their team needed them the most. And the Los Angeles Lakers aren’t ready to give up on them, even if the cost is letting go of Kyrie Irving.
Per NBA Correspondent Marc Stein, “Retaining restricted free agents Austin Reaves and Rui Hachimura, continues to be regarded as the Lakers’ preferred offseason course.” Considering the way Reves and Hachimura have performed throughout the season and specifically in the playoffs, big offers from other teams won’t be a surprise. And the Lakers wouldn’t want to let go of them just because of their adamant desire to sign Irving.“
It’ll be interesting to see where the Lakers go from here and how the trade between the teams plays out.
Related: Dallas Mavericks DISMISS Kyrie Irving’s trade to Lakers for D’Angelo Russell
Kyrie Irving or Austin Reaves and Rui Hachimura? What is a better deal for the Lakers?
Austin Reaves, no matter what, is going to be the priority of the Los Angeles Lakers. Throughout the course of this season, Austin Reaves proved his worth as a dependable shot creator, particularly when starting in 22 regular season games. He showcased an impressive average of 15.1 points, 3.5 rebounds, and 4.2 assists per game during these appearances.
As the playoffs arrived, Reaves further elevated his performance, displaying an increased level of skill. He contributed significantly, averaging 16.9 points, 4.4 rebounds, and 4.6 assists per game. It is now clear that he can effectively support the team as a reliable secondary shot creator, working alongside the likes of LeBron James and Anthony Davis.
As for Rui Hachimura, he came in handy against the Denver Nuggets when every other player failed to step up. Hachimura locking up Nikola Jokic was one of the highlights Lakers fans won’t forget for a long time.
Kyrie Irving, on the other hand, has his career marred with controversies. His battle remains tougher off the court than on it. Since his inception in the Mavericks squad, the team that stood at #5 on the table ended their season at #11. Though this cannot entirely be blamed on Irving, some of it still goes to the player.
Retaining Hachimura and Reaves does look like a good decision for the Lakers. However, it’ll be interesting to see where they go ahead with this idea of the trade. Stay tuned for more updates!
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Harshit Singh
(434 Articles Published)