NBA 2K to eventually release Celtics version of Irving cover

In June, Cleveland Cavaliers point guard Kyrie Irving was unveiled as the NBA 2K18 cover athlete.

Since then, however, word got out that the four-time All-Star requested a trade. He got his wish Tuesday night when he was dealt to the Boston Celtics.

NBA 2K quickly realized the implications the blockbuster deal has for its new video game.

The company addressed the issue Wednesday, saying it will release a second edition featuring Irving in his new No. 11 Celtics jersey at a later date.

Here's the full statement from 2K's senior VP of basketball operations, Jason Argent (via Game Informer):

We are excited to be part of one of the most memorable NBA offseasons in history with Kyrie, our 2K18 cover athlete, and Isaiah, one of the stars of our 2K roster, trading places. This isn't an unprecedented event, a cover athlete being traded - but it's certainly interesting timing with 2K18 being released in less than a month. The good news is that as the most authentic and realistic basketball game on the market, we're used to being nimble and responding to changes in the NBA. Fans should be thrilled to know that we will issue a version of 2K18 featuring Kyrie in a Boston Celtics uniform at a later date.

The game is set to hit the shelves Sept. 19.