Leading up to the NBA draft lottery, there were reports the Cleveland Cavaliers were not going to offer Kyrie Irving a max contract extension and were fielding calls for the All-Star.
According to Terry Pluto of The Plain Dealer, the Cavaliers will be offering Irving the five-year deal in the $90 million range:
“My sources tell me that the Cavs have had no doubts about offering Irving the 5-year deal, and will do so. Once July 1 arrives — the first date that an extension can be offered — the Cavs will set up a meeting with Irving. They will present their All-Star guard with a contract extension, a 5-year deal in the $90 million range (or whatever is the maximum number).”
Having said that, if Irving isn’t interested in an extension on July 1, the team will potentially look to deal him:
“Now, if Irving doesn’t seem interested in an extension, that could lead to a trade.”
While there will continue to be speculation, Los Angeles could be a potential trading partner should Irving not be interested in an extension. There was a recent report that Irving would find the Lakers to be an attractive destination especially if they were to hire his former coach and Laker, Byron Scott.
— Think You Know Everything About Kobe Bryant? Take The Ultimate Kobe Quiz! —
With the NBA Draft less than 20 days away, the Lakers will explore all of their options including potentially trading the pick. The team has been rumored to make a “monster push” for Minnesota’s Kevin Love and if Irving doesn’t want to sign an extension to remain in Cleveland, he could also be a potential target.
____________________________________________________
Lakers Likely Draft Candidates
Los Angeles Lakers(96) - Minnesota Timberwolves(103)
