Some teams around the NBA believe the Brooklyn Nets would be open to a sign-and-trade for Kyrie Irving if he opts out of his player option for next season, according to Ian Begley of SNY.
Begley offered a few notes on Brooklyn ahead of the NBA Draft and free agency, starting by pointing out some comments made by Nets general manager Sean Marks. The franchise is reportedly looking for players who are “here for something bigger than themselves.”
“We want to avoid the drama, we want to avoid the distractions,” Marks said.
Since joining Brooklyn as a free agent in 2019, Irving has played in just 103 games, missing 52 of 72 contests in his first year due to a shoulder injury. He also missed 18 of 72 in his second year and 53 of 82 this past season as a result of his COVID-19 vaccination status.
What if Kyrie opts out of his player option?
Irving has stated multiple times that his intentions are to stay with the franchise. But what would happen if Irving opts out of his $37.5 million option for next season?
The 30-year-old guard is eligible for unrestricted free agency if he turns down his player option for the 2022-23 season. If Irving opts out and seeks a new contract, he would be eligible for a five-year deal with Brooklyn worth up to a projected $248 million.
Some reports claim that the Nets currently are not interested in offering Irving a long-term extension. Whatever happens with his contract, Irving will likely remain a Net one more year to see how he and Kevin Durant will play alongside Ben Simmons.
Marca
