While speculations continue to emerge that the main reason why Kyrie Irving demanded a trade from the Cleveland Cavaliers was because he does not want to play behind LeBron James anymore, there’s also some news that surfaced recently that there are some off court issues as well between the two.
It has been reported by ESPN’s Ramona Shelburne, Dave McMenamin and Brian Windhorst that the special treatment King James has been receiving from the team has bothered the All-Star point guard. He is also apparently envious of the situations Damian Lillard and John Wall have, who are both the franchise players of their respective teams.
“But there were ancillary issues that bothered Irving, too, such as how James’ good friend Randy Mims had a position on the Cavs’ staff and traveled on the team plane while none of Irving’s close friends were afforded the same opportunity. Irving chafed about how peers such as Damian Lillard and John Wall were the center of their franchises and catered to accordingly. There’s irony there, as Wall was envious of Irving’s Nike shoe deal and Lillard has never advanced beyond the second round of the playoffs. Irving has been to three Finals and has a championship.”
Irving’s request to be moved by the Cavs came as a shocker to many when it was first reported last Friday. Many did not see it coming, especially with his team reaching the Finals three consecutive years, and winning the title last year. Despite being the second option for the Cavaliers, Uncle Drew has still been able to establish himself as one of the best point guards, and an elite player in the league today.
His situation with the Wine and Gold is definitely something worth keeping an eye on, and the Cleveland faithful are already monitoring it closely. It will be interesting to see what will transpire in the coming days, and if the team will ultimately give in to his demand to be traded. Whatever happens, one thing that’s certain is that the Cavs will go for the best possible scenario for themselves, and still have a very good chance of contending for another championship next year.