Boston Celtics president Danny Ainge isn't making much of Kyrie Irving's sudden desire to remain in Bean Town for the long-term, as he's expressed in recent interviews since the start of training camp.

Irving turned down a recent extension offer this summer, saying it wouldn't make sense to sign one and potentially miss out on $80 million down the road. That tune has changed now in light of the trade rumors connecting him to his native New Jersey, putting the New York Knicks at the forefront of his desired destinations.

Yet Ainge doesn't think there's been a sudden change of attitude coming from Kyrie Irving.

ā€œI donā€™t think thatā€™s ever a change of tune,ā€ Danny Ainge said Wednesday, according to Steve Bulpett of The Boston Herald. ā€œIā€™ve talked to Kyrie a lot. Maybe heā€™s changed his tune with you (media), but he has been very positive from the day he got here. I talk to Kyrie all the time, his representation. I think Kyrie is very happy here in Boston, always has been. That will hopefully make this a place he wants to stay much longer once the season ends.ā€

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During an appearance in the Toucher & Rich podcast, Irving did his best work to shut down rumors of his potential exit at the end of the season.

via Adam Kaufman of CLNS Media:

ā€œIt's easy to follow. I'm from New Jersey. But it's rumors, rumors, rumors,ā€ said Irving. ā€œIt's easy to draw that connection ā€“ New York City ā€“ but why would I want to leave here?ā€

Boston could be currently on the driver's seat to hold the throne in the East for a very long time and if Kryie Irving remains to stay, that possibility cements itself even more. Ainge has been known to play it cool at all times, but it wouldn't be surprising to see him sweat this situation throughout the season, as it's bound to come up every now and again.