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The Los Angeles Lakers have been looming as a potential trade suitor for Brooklyn Nets star guard Kyrie Irving this offseason. No traction has been made on a deal yet, though the Lakers have shown interest in Irving, with the Nets star reciprocating that by including LA on his ‘wish list' of teams earlier this offseason.
As of right now, the deal is being held up by multiple factors, including the potential involvement of Russell Westbrook, as well as Brooklyn's desire to wait on an Irving deal until Durant is traded.
However, there might be something else holding up an Irving trade. There is reportedly a ‘divide' between LeBron James and others in the Lakers organization over a deal for the Nets star.
“I think there’s a slight divide right now where LeBron wants Kyrie and some people internally might prefer a Myles Turner/Buddy Hield type deal.”
⁃ Jovan Buha while discussing the Lakers, Kyrie Irving, and Jeanie Buss’ tweet she made on 7/3/22https://t.co/9PSohEsO6s— The Lakers Review (@TheLakersReview) July 8, 2022
Per Jovan Buha of The Athletic, some internal voices in the Lakers would prefer a “Myles Turner/Buddy Hield type deal” over a Kyrie Irving trade, which is what LeBron James is reportedly pushing for.
It's certainly easy to understand both sides. Irving isn't exactly a hot commodity after his refusal to take the COVID-19 vaccine resulted in him missing games, to the chagrin of teammates.
Not to mention the drama that seems to follow him wherever he goes. After a season of dysfunction, why would the Lakers want a player like that?
That's precisely where LeBron James' side comes in. He and Irving made sweet music together when they were on the Cleveland Cavaliers, winning a championship while complimenting each other remarkably well on the court.
What could James, Anthony Davis and Irving do? If the Lakers can get past this reported ‘divide', they'll find out. This, along with the Durant saga, will be worth keeping an eye on.
