The Brooklyn Nets and Chicago Bulls bowed out of the 2022 NBA postseason with just one win between them. The Boston Celtics swept Kyrie Irving and the Nets, exposing their need for a quality center and improved defense. Chicago fell short to Milwaukee in five games, let down by an uninspiring offense. Both teams will be looking to improve this offseason.
Could the Bulls pursue a trade for Nets’ star Kyrie Irving? It’s certainly possible. Chicago clearly needs more star power on their side, and with Zach LaVine as a free agent, Kyrie may be a necessary replacement. The big question is whether the Nets will be willing to part with him.
According to some recent comments from Nets’ GM Sean Marks, that may be more plausible than it seems.
“We’ve looking for guys that want to come in here and be part of something bigger than themselves, play selfless, play team basketball, and be available. That goes not only for Kyrie but for everybody here,” Marks said.
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That comment, though he said it applies to “everyone,” reads as a direct shot at Kyrie Irving. Irving, due to his refusal to receive the COVID vaccine, missed 53 games this season. The Nets were unable to develop chemistry as a team with Kyrie out so often, so it’s plausible that Marks would move him for a more reliable player.
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Kyrie’s absences have already hurt Brooklyn, and not just on the court. James Harden forced his way off the team because of his displeasure with Irving’s part-time status. In return for Harden the Nets were able to get Ben Simmons, but Simmons has yet to see the floor.
The Nets are potentially in disarray following their sweep. I wouldn’t be surprised to see them make a move this offseason – even with Kyrie at the center of it.
