Stephen A. Smith Says Kyrie Irving Plans on Joining Lakers in 2023

Stephen A. Smith playing fortune teller.

Throughout the summer the story hanging over the Los Angeles Lakers was their attempt to trade Russell Westbrook for Brooklyn Nets star Kyrie Irving. Those attempts failed and Irving and Kevin Durant instead opted to re-commit themselves to the Nets franchise. But with those two you never know for how long they’ll be happy.  Irving opted into the final year of his contract early in the offseason, and unless he signs an extension, he will become a free agent next summer.

There have been reports that the Lakers are trying to clear a max salary slot so they could pursue Kyrie,  but another report indicated they don’t have him in their long-term plans. ESPN personality Stephen A. Smith seems convinced Irving will find his way to the Purple and Gold after this season.

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Stephen A: "This is [Kevin Durant and Kyrie Irving's] last season together. They're not re-signing with Brooklyn. Kyrie is trying to go to Los Angeles. That's what he's trying to do now." pic.twitter.com/HJnDOrGm3z

— 𝙏𝙖𝙡𝙠𝙞𝙣’ 𝙉𝘽𝘼 (@_Talkin_NBA) October 12, 2022

There will likely be many more reports claiming that Irving is determined to join the Lakers, or that the Lakers are looking to land him in free agency.

The Lakers have plenty of drama already,  and first thing’s first, they have to get rid of Russell Westbrook before they do anything.  Of course if they come out of the gate winning with their current roster, all  the talk  should die down.

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