There were a number of interesting dynamics going into the 2018 NBA All-Star Game over the weekend. However, the most notable may have been the reunification of Cleveland Cavaliers forward LeBron James and Boston Celtics point guard Kyrie Irving.
The Cavs star made headlines when he announced his selection of Irving in the game’s new draft format. According to ESPN’s Dave McMenamin, James may have been trying to send a message to the Cavs front office by picking his former teammate:
It was reported Sunday on “SportsCenter” that James likely had three reasons, with the main one being to “send a message” to Cleveland’s front office that he can still play with the 25-year-old guard and that’s why he never wanted him to be traded.
There has been plenty of speculation regarding Irving’s decision to leave Cleveland. Some had suggested that he had grown tired of playing second-fiddle to James and was ready to be the ringmaster of his own team. Others cited lingering problems with the Cavs’ brass as a reason for not being able to convince the two to stay together.
Whatever the case, it is clear that they still make a pretty dynamic duo. Both players nearly messed around and got a triple-double during the festivities in Los Angeles. James finished with 29 points, 10 rebounds, and eight assists while Irving registered 13 points, seven rebounds, and nine assists.
Furthermore, both have continued to fan the flames of rumors regarding their future as teammates with several notable moments throughout the game. They also praised each other afterward while describing how good it felt to share the court together once again. However, it remains to be seen whether or not James was really trying to send a message to his front office at the time.