Boston Celtics point guard Kyrie Irving doubled down on his desire to remain in Beantown after a summer full of rumors following his decision to turn down a contract extension in the offseason. It didn't take long for a potential link to the New York Knicks to come swirling around, along with the possibility to team up with estranged Minnesota Timberwolves forward Jimmy Butler, who also has the Knicks and the Brooklyn Nets in his destination list.
The All-Star guard cleared the air by putting himself in that situation right away, hypothetically speaking on his decision-making process.
“To be in a position to even be considered a franchise free agent is pretty awesome,” said Irving, according to Gary Washburn of The Boston Globe. “At this point in my career, it’s not so much about the money, it’s not so much about the extra curricular things, it’s like OK, where am I happy? Where am I most comfortable? Who’s going to give me that [atmosphere] where I would love to grow as a human being? I spent more time with my teammates than I do with my family and you want to be in a place where thinking about starting over again, obviously that’s what the thing you think about.”
Irving would soon reiterate his desire to stay in Boston after arriving via trade a year earlier.
“You think, ‘what about a new location?’ and it’s just like I want to be comfortable and what’s better than being in Boston? This year has felt much different because of the environment that has been created for me and by me and going to the new practice facility. There’s nothing like playing at TD Garden. “I didn’t say that to appease you guys. I actually love Boston.”
There has been no sign of discontent coming from Irving during the last season, besides his recent injury. His happiness along with the ability to lead his own team and contend for a title should be all he needs moving forward to remain a Celtic long term.