Kyrie Irving shocked the basketball world when he requested a trade from the Cleveland Cavaliers despite winning one championship in three consecutive NBA Finals appearances. After six years in the league, the 25-year-old wanted to take the next step in his development by becoming a team's first option.

While it took time, Irving was eventually traded to the Boston Celtics for Isaiah Thomas, Jae Crowder, Ante Zizic, and two draft picks. At his introductory press conference, the four-time All-Star was asked if he has spoken to LeBron James according to NBA TV:

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Mavericks' Luka Doncic and Mavericks' Kyrie Irving both smiling in front of image. In background, need both Doncic and Irving shooting basketballs.

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Through the course of James' career, he has been labeled as the ultimate teammate. With players looking to team up with him, this was a shocking development considering the success they had since James returned home. However, with the future Hall of Famer becoming a free agent following the 2017-18 NBA season, there was uncertainty about his future and the team's direction.

In Boston, Irving will have an opportunity to become the team's first option. Along with Al Horford and Gordon Hayward, the Celtics also drafted Jaylen Brown and Jayson Tatum in the last two years. With the Celtics and Cavaliers considered the two best teams in the Eastern Conference, they will face off against each other in the season opener on Oct. 17 at Quicken Loans Arena.