Brooklyn nets star Kevin Durant know Kyrie Irving has some important decisions to make this offseason. Irving previously said he wanted to stay in Brooklyn for the long haul, but – as many things are with Irving – the situation is complicated†
Irving has a $36 million player option for the 2022-23 season. He has until June 29 to make use of that option. A few months ago, it was assumed that Irving would take up that option or sign a long-term extension with the Nets. But after Irving missed much of the season due to his refusal to be vaccinated against COVID-19, the… Doubting nets on a long-term commitment.
That leaves Irving with some decisions. He can opt out of his deal with the Nets and go into the open market, he can sign up and accept a long-term extension to stay with the team or he can sign up and try force a sign and act to another franchise.
While Irving’s decision will have a major effect on Durant’s future, Durant said he will not participating in Irving’s situation.
“There’s no involvement at all,” Durant said on the ETCs podcast. “I mean, I can’t get involved, this is this guy’s livelihood, you know? This is way bigger than me. Being a free agent is one of the most important moments in your career. Don’t let that influence you by anyone otherwise, i just do it and wait for the time.
“Nothing can happen at this point. I don’t think he can make a decision to opt out until the 29th, I guess. So I’ll just let things play and see what happens. Keep in touch with Ky regularly and we’ll We’ll see what happens. It’s something I have so little control over that I don’t want to be a part of it. We’ll see what happens.”
Will Kyrie Irving force a transaction from the Nets?
Irving has reportedly been preparing for a scenario where he will leave the team. He would already has a list of teams he would be happy to join if he follows the board and trade route. Those teams include the Los Angeles Lakers and Philadelphia 76ers.
In that scenario, Durant could be the next domino to fall. Teams are reportedly preparing trading scenarios by accident Durant suddenly becomes availableaccording to ESPN’s Zach Lowe.
Much remains to be done before a Durant transaction becomes a possibility. The Irving situation must be resolved first, and Durant is content to let Irving call there.