Just when it seemed like everything was back on track in Brooklyn, another trade request took the train off the rails.
All-Star guard Kyrie Irving shockingly requested a trade from the Nets after the two sides couldn't come to terms on a contract extension ahead of the Thursday, Feb. 9 trade deadline, according to multiple sources.
This came as a surprise with Irving playing some of the best basketball of his career as of late, helping the Nets stay afloat while superstar forward Kevin Durant was sidelined with a knee injury.
Over his last 10 games, Irving was averaging 30.3 points, 6.9 assists, 5.7 rebounds and 1.8 steals, showcasing what he could bring to any team that tries to trade for him.
MORE: Lakers, Mavericks among best potential landing spots for Irving
And just as it unfolded in the summer when Irving and the Nets couldn't reach an agreement on a contract extension, the Lakers immediately became a trending destination for the Brooklyn star guard.
ESPN's Adrian Wojnarowski and The Athletic's Shams Charania listed Los Angeles as a potential suitor for Irving. From there, it didn't take long for some key Lakers figures to step in and tease a potential trade.
First, Lakers legend Magic Johnson tweeted that he would love to see Irving in purple and gold.
Personally, I’d love to see Kyrie in the purple and gold.
— Earvin Magic Johnson (@MagicJohnson) February 3, 2023
Then, Irving's former teammate LeBron James set NBA Twitter on fire with a timely cryptic emoji tweet, as we see players do so often around trade season and free agency.
👀👑
— LeBron James (@KingJames) February 3, 2023
Whether or not the Lakers would be willing to give up the assets to acquire Irving — who is set to become an unrestricted free agent this offseason — is unknown.
MORE: Who are the best free agents available in 2023?
But it's clear that James would not be opposed to reuniting with his point guard who helped him win the NBA title over the 73-9 Warriors back in 2016.
With the NBA trade deadline less than a week away, all we can do is sit back, grab some popcorn and watch how all of this unfolds.
