Kyrie Irving Stuns The Basketball World By Requesting Trade From Brooklyn Nets

The story of the NBA summer is now the story of the NBA trade deadline as well.

Brooklyn Nets superstar Kyrie Irving spent the offseason at the center of trade speculation before later reaffirming his commitment to the organization.

At the time, Irving released a cryptic tweet about his decision to remain in Brooklyn.

“Normal people keep the world going, but those who dare to be different lead us into tomorrow. I’ve made my decision to opt in. See you in the fall. A11even.”

Now just seven months later, Irving has changed his mind.

The Athletic’s Shams Charania broke the bombshell report on Friday afternoon, stating that Irving has requested a trade out of Brooklyn.

The Nets are currently 31-20 and sit in fourth place in the Eastern Conference. But they’re always without Kevin Durant for the foreseeable future due a sprained MCL and the team has spiraled without him. Brooklyn is just 4-7 without Durant and they’re coming off a 139-96 blowout loss to the East-leading Celtics.

What’s Next For Kyrie Irving After Trade Request

Irving, meanwhile, enters the final few months of his contract and had yet to sign an extension with Brooklyn. Now it appears he’ll look to continue his career elsewhere with the NBA trade deadline is just six days away. The Lakers, Clippers, Heat and Mavericks are teams that immediately come to mind as suitors. Los Angeles was considered his preferred destination in the summer prior to opting in to the final year of his deal with Nets. Though reports have since stated that LA may be less willing to deal with Irving’s off-court issues than previously believed.

Fans were not exactly surprised by Irving pulling an about face.

One thing is certain. Wherever Irving goes, controversy is sure to follow. And there’s likely to be now shortage of suitors for the seven-time All-Star.