Report: Kyrie's long-term intentions unclear; Nets, Knicks would pursue
While Kyrie Irving's plans may be unclear, one thing is certain: the Boston Celtics point guard will be highly sought-after when he ultimately hits unrestricted free agency in 2019.
There are no "firm indications" as to whether Irving will look to leave Boston next summer or if he intends to make a move to New York, as many rumors have suggested, according to the The New York Times' Marc Stein.
Irving will earn approximately $20 million in 2018-19, with a player option of $21.3 million the following year, which he'll more than likely opt out of to secure a larger contract. If that does happen, both the Brooklyn Nets and New York Knicks are expected to pursue him.
The 26-year-old was acquired by the Celtics prior to the 2017-18 campaign in a blockbuster trade with the Cleveland Cavaliers. He made 60 appearances before undergoing season-ending surgery to remove two screws from his left Patella.
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Celtics executives were reportedly of the mindset in June that Irving is content in Boston and wants to stay, while also acknowledging a lot can happen in one year's time and there's no way of guaranteeing he'll re-sign.
This came on the heels of Irving declaring his intentions to not ink a contract extension this summer, as it didn't make sense financially. Had he done so, his deal would have been worth roughly $108 million over four years, instead of the potential five-year, $188-million contract he could land if he opts out.
It had previously been reported by ESPN's Ian Begley that the Knicks were among the teams Irving, who grew up in West Orange, N.J., would consider if he tested the free-agent waters.
Boston finished second in the Eastern Conference with a 55-27 record and was one win away from advancing to the NBA Finals for the first time since 2010 despite being without both Irving and Gordon Hayward.
Irving averaged 24.4 points on 49.1 percent shooting, along with 3.8 rebounds, 5.1 assists, and 1.1 steals in 32.2 minutes per game last season.