Kyrie Irving addresses NBA free agency rumors, upcoming decision

Kyrie Irving is one of the top NBA free agents with the Los Angeles Lakers and Dallas Mavericks among the teams expected to pursue him. However, it appears some of the NBA rumors involving Irving might not be entirely accurate.

While Irving played well after being traded to Dallas, the team struggled. Irving averaged 27 points per game and shot 51% from the field, but the Mavericks went 8-12 with him in the starting lineup and missed the NBA playoffs.

The early end of the Mavericks’ season immediately prompted questions regarding Irving’s future. While Dallas wants to retain him, especially after it traded a first-round pick for him, there will be competition.

Kyrie Irving stats (2022-’23): 27.1 PPG, 5.5 APG, 5.1 RPG, 1.1 SPG, 49.4% FG

Appearing on Instagram Live, Irving brought up his upcoming free agency process. The All-Star point guard made it clear he won’t rush into a decision, but more focused on the rumors out there and told his followers to ignore them.

“I’m a free agent this summer, but I am in no rush to make a decision. The speculation around my name from all these individuals who be on TV and have these personalities, all these people that have platforms … When they speak on my name and they’re talking about potential teams that I’m going to, can y’all please, respectfully, stop paying attention to that.
Kyrie Irving on rumors involving him in NBA free agency

It wasn’t made clear which rumors Irving was talking about. Some reports have suggested there is a deal in place with Dallas that would make Irving one of the highest-paid NBA players. However, his poor on-court fit with Luka Doncic and the Mavericks’ defensive issues with Irving on the court suggests it’s not a guarantee he returns.

There is also a lot of buzz connecting Irving to the Lakers. With LeBron James contemplating retirement, Los Angeles might feel inclined to make moves that would convince him to stay. Given the Lakers’ cap space and James’ interest in playing with Irving one last time, it’s possible he signs with Los Angeles.