NBA players often make appearances at playoff games they aren’t participating in. Whether it’s because their offseason home hosts a championship contender, or simply to bask in the glory of the sport’s ultimate showcase, their presence rarely goes unnoticed. However, Kyrie Irving’s attendance at the Lakers’ playoff games last offseason carried a weight far beyond casual fandom. According to ESPN’s Ramona Shelburne, Irving was sending a clear message: he was serious about joining the Los Angeles Lakers.
The basketball world buzzed with speculation. The Lakers, led by LeBron James and Anthony Davis, were already a formidable force, but the addition of Irving could have been the final piece to a championship puzzle. As the Lakers made an unexpected run to the Western Conference finals, Irving’s potential fit became a tantalizing prospect for fans and analysts alike.
Irving, an eight-time All-Star, is known for his clutch performances and elite ball-handling skills. His championship experience with the Cleveland Cavaliers, where he famously hit the game-winning shot in Game 7 of the 2016 NBA Finals, made him a coveted asset for any title-aspiring team. For the Lakers, his arrival would mean an upgrade at the point guard position, bringing an additional scoring threat and playmaking ability to complement LeBron and Davis.
Revisiting Lakers’ failed pursuits of Kyrie Irving: What might have been if NBA All-Star had landed in L.A. – https://t.co/XPANsaLZOl https://t.co/YBsvM8dPR1
— QWIKET NBA (@qwiket_nba) June 4, 2024
Imagining Irving in the purple and gold ignited a wave of ‘what ifs’ across the NBA landscape. The Lakers, with Irving, could have formed a new super team, reminiscent of the Showtime Lakers of the 1980s. The potential starting lineup of Irving, LeBron, Davis, Austin Reaves, and Rui Hachimura would have been a nightmare for opponents, blending star power with versatility and depth.
But the deal never materialized. Instead, Irving re-signed with the Dallas Mavericks, leaving Lakers fans to ponder what might have been. The reasons behind the failed union remain speculative. Salary cap constraints, luxury tax implications, and the Lakers’ long-term strategy could all have played roles in the decision-making process.
Yet, the allure of what could have been lingers. Irving’s dynamic scoring and ball-handling would have alleviated the playmaking burden on LeBron, allowing him to operate more off-ball and extend his career longevity. Davis, too, would have benefited from Irving’s presence, facing less defensive pressure and reducing his injury risk. The Lakers’ offensive firepower would have rivaled any team in the league, with three All-NBA caliber players capable of taking over games at will.
Kendrick Perkins (@KendrickPerkins) says Anthony Davis (@AntDavis23) & Kyrie (@KyrieIrving) were LeBron’s (@KingJames) best teammates. Thoughts? ðŸ’🤔
🎥 Via: @ScoopB 📺 #NBA #LakersAve #TakesEverybodypic.twitter.com/AnsKTZ5yrE
— Lᴀᴋᴇʀs Aᴠᴇ (@TheLakersAvenue) June 5, 2024
Defensively, the Lakers would have posed significant challenges for opponents. Irving’s underrated defensive prowess, coupled with Davis’s rim protection and LeBron’s versatility, would have created a formidable defensive unit. The potential for small-ball lineups, with Davis at the center and LeBron and Irving facilitating, could have unleashed a new era of fast-paced, high-scoring basketball in Los Angeles.
Despite the missed opportunity, the Lakers remain a championship contender. LeBron and Davis continue to anchor the team, while promising talents like Austin Reaves and Rui Hachimura provide optimism for the future. Yet, the fantasy of Kyrie Irving donning the Lakers jersey, leading fast breaks alongside LeBron, and dazzling crowds at the Staples Center, remains an alluring ‘what if’ scenario.
As the NBA season progresses, fans will continue to dream about the lost dynasty that never was. The possibility of a Lakers team led by LeBron, Davis, and Irving will forever be a tantalizing thought, a reminder of how close the league came to witnessing another super team in the City of Angels. For now, Lakers fans must content themselves with the reality of their current roster, while keeping an eye on future opportunities to build their next dynasty.
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