LeBron encourages Cavs fans to show respect for Kyrie following trade
Despite everything that transpired, LeBron James showed love to Kyrie Irving upon his departure from the Cleveland Cavaliers.
A Cavs fan posted a video that, at first glance, looks like another jersey-burning clip after reports emerged Tuesday that the team traded Irving to the Boston Celtics. Instead, though, the person expressed gratitude to the four-time All-Star with a kind note:
Ok Cavs fans you know what to do.. pic.twitter.com/pZMI6SX8Hb
— tony hartman (@tony_hartman) August 22, 2017
James responded to the video in agreement, calling Irving "special" and saying he has nothing but respect for his teammate of the last three years.
That's the only way to be to the kid! Special talent/guy! Nothing but respect and what a ride it was our 3 years together Young Gode #Filayy https://t.co/wKYmYsmdgG
— LeBron James (@KingJames) August 23, 2017
Related - LeBron praises Kyrie: 'The kid's special' and always rises to the occasion
The superstar's support for his outgoing teammate is somewhat surprising given rumors that Irving wanted out to get away from James, who was "blindsided" by the request. More specifically, the 25-year-old point guard sought to get out of the legendary forward's shadow and into a situation where he can be the No. 1 option.
Cleveland drafted Irving after James left the club in 2010. When LBJ made the decision to return to the Cavs, he cited his belief in Irving's potential as one of the driving factors. Together, they led the Cavaliers to three straight NBA Finals, winning it all in 2016. That championship run - the first one ever for the franchise - was highlighted by Irving's clutch shot in Game 7 that sealed Cleveland's victory and comeback from a 3-1 series deficit against the Golden State Warriors.
Their bitter breakup doesn't change the fact that they made history together, so it's good to see James taking the high road.