Nothin' But Nets
Fansided

3 high-profile dark horse trade destinations for Kyrie Irving

By Jordanna Clark

LOS ANGELES, CA - OCTOBER 03: Kyrie Irving #11 of the Brooklyn Nets follows the action from the bench during a preseason game against the Los Angeles Lakers at Staples Center on October 3, 2021 in Los Angeles, California. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and/or using this Photograph, user is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Kevork Djansezian/Getty Images)
LOS ANGELES, CA - OCTOBER 03: Kyrie Irving #11 of the Brooklyn Nets follows the action from the bench during a preseason game against the Los Angeles Lakers at Staples Center on October 3, 2021 in Los Angeles, California. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and/or using this Photograph, user is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Kevork Djansezian/Getty Images) /
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Brooklyn Nets, Kyrie Irving
LeBron James, Kyrie Irving. (Photo by: Matteo Marchi/Getty Images) /

1. Los Angeles Lakers

If Irving were traded to the Los Angeles Lakers, the NBA realm would erupt. He’d get to team up with past teammate LeBron James. The two know what it takes to win a title, having done so together in Cleveland. The Lakers had high expectations entering the year with a lineup boasting James, Anthony Davis, and Russell Westbrook, but have been off to a shaky start.

Watching Irving and James play on the same team together a few years back was pure bliss. The two already have the chemistry that Los Angeles is currently lacking.

Westbrook is the team’s starting point guard and he’s averaging 20.7 points, 8.2 rebounds, and 8.6 assists, but his 4.7 turnovers per game are good for second-worst in the league. While his play has improved since the start of the year, the Lakers are going to have to do something fast if they continue to tumble down the standings.

The Lakers’ offensive rating is 106.6, 23rd in the league. There’s no excuse for that with the amount of stars on this roster, and bumping Westbrook might be the boost this team needs.

Most importantly, Irving being on the floor would complement the games of both James and Davis. Imagine how lethal that trio would be together.

The Lakers have first-round picks from 2025-28. A lot would have to fall into place for Los Angeles to trade for Irving, but crazier things have happened.