Kyrie dismisses rumors he's discussed joining forces with Butler in New York

Kyrie Irving said there is no truth to any rumors or reports suggesting he and Jimmy Butler have discussed teaming up next summer to play for the New York Knicks.

As it turns out, both Irving and Butler haven't had a lengthy conversation since suiting up for USA Basketball when the two of them, along with Kevin Durant and DeMarcus Cousins, discussed their respective futures.

"And that," Irving laughs, "was in 2016," he told ESPN's Jackie MacMullan.

Irving will earn just under $21 million next season in Boston, with a player option of $21.3 million in 2019-20. He was eligible for a contract extension this offseason but elected not to sign one as he'd be leaving over $80 million on the table.

Nonetheless, Irving understands his future will continue to be a major talking point after choosing not to commit at his earliest opportunity.

"I'm accepting it's going to be a constant story," added Irving. "It's a point in my professional career where it is a big-time decision. I've been away from Cleveland officially for a year now, and I'm finally getting acclimated in Boston.

"Last year it was almost like a trial. There was a lot going on. It was overwhelming at times, to be honest. The focus needed to be directed on getting better and helping my new team win a championship, instead of focusing on all the outside noise (regarding his departure from Cleveland) that affected me personally."

Butler also has a player option in his deal which he could opt out of. It's highly unlikely he finishes next season with the Minnesota Timberwolves after he reportedly requested a trade earlier in the week. Butler listed three desired destinations, one of them being the Knicks.