Kyrie Irving Reaches Out To LeBron James, Fueling Speculation of Mavericks Reunion


Photo: Instagram/Kyrie Irving

In the midst of the NBA Finals, rumors continue to swirl as the upcoming free agency period approaches on June 30.

One particularly intriguing rumor has emerged, suggesting that Kyrie Irving has reached out to LeBron James to gauge his interest in joining the Dallas Mavericks. While this rumor is still speculative, it has generated considerable buzz due to the potential impact it could have on the league.

Irving, who will be an unrestricted free agent this summer, has been linked to both the Los Angeles Lakers and a re-signing with the Mavericks. However, this latest rumor indicates that Irving may be interested in a unique scenario where he remains in Dallas and plays alongside his former teammate and friend, LeBron James.

Photo: Instagram/Kyrie Irving and LeBron James 

Irving and James famously won an NBA championship together in 2016 as members of the Cleveland Cavaliers. Despite a somewhat acrimonious split that led to Irving's trade request to the Boston Celtics, there have been ongoing reports of their mutual interest in playing together again.

Earlier this season, when Irving requested a trade from the Brooklyn Nets, the Lakers were reportedly considering acquiring the All-Star guard. However, the Mavericks ultimately made a stronger offer and secured Irving's services.

Nevertheless, the possibility of a reunion between Irving and James hinges on numerous factors. Irving will become a free agent, while James is currently under contract with the Lakers for the upcoming 2023-24 season, with a player option for the following summer.

If Irving wants to team up with James in Dallas, it would necessitate a trade, which Irving reportedly wants the Mavericks to explore. Such a trade would require the Mavericks to part with significant assets to absorb James' substantial $46.9 million salary for the next season, making it an incredibly challenging move to execute.

While the likelihood of James joining the Mavericks alongside Irving and Luka Doncic may appear slim due to the obstacles involved, it cannot be entirely ruled out. If Dallas were somehow able to overcome these hurdles, it would undoubtedly strengthen their chances of returning to the playoffs after a disappointing season in which they missed the postseason entirely.

Following their Western Conference Finals appearance the previous year, the Mavericks experienced a decline in performance following the acquisition of Irving. Despite Irving and Doncic's individual contributions, it became evident that the team needed significant roster upgrades.

Landing James would undoubtedly address this concern. Notably, this is not the first time the Mavericks have expressed interest in acquiring LeBron, as they reportedly pursued a trade last season when the Lakers were struggling.

Considering the challenges Dallas would face in making such a move, it currently appears unlikely that LeBron James will end up playing for the Mavericks alongside Irving and Doncic. However, given James' recent contemplation of retirement following the Lakers' second-round exit in the playoffs, it is difficult to completely dismiss the possibility. In the ever-evolving landscape of the NBA, anything can happen.

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Source: CBS Sports 


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