After three consecutive NBA Finals appearances with the Cleveland Cavaliers, Kyrie Irving shocked the basketball world by requesting a trade. Despite all the reports about the New York Knicks and Phoenix Suns, Irving was ultimately traded to the Boston Celtics for Isaiah Thomas, Jae Crowder, Ante Zizic, and 2018 Brooklyn Nets first round draft pick.

Despite winning one championship with LeBron James, Irving wanted to be a team's first option. With the Celtics providing the opportunity, his former teammate revealed the four-time All-Star believes he is on James' level and looked up to Kobe Bryant:

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While most players want to play with James, it appears Irving wants a new challenge in his young career. At 25 years old, he has established himself as one of the best offensive players in the league, but will need to improve on the defensive end.

Heading into the 2017-18 NBA season, Irving will have plenty of help. In addition to signing Al Horford and Gordon Hayward in free agency, the Celtics also selected Jaylen Brown and Jayson Tatum with their high lottery draft picks over the past two years.

With a core in place, the Celtics are determined to dethrone James and the Cavaliers in the Eastern Conference. Fortunately for all basketball fans, Irving will be returning to the Quicken Loans Arena in the season opener.