Report: Cavs, Celtics nearing trade centered on Irving, Thomas
The Cleveland Cavaliers and Boston Celtics could be swapping starting point guards.
The two teams are nearing a deal centered on sending Kyrie Irving to the Celtics, league sources told ESPN's Adrian Wojnarowski. The Cavs could receive Isaiah Thomas, small forward Jae Crowder, center Ante Zizic, and future draft picks in return.
Cleveland sent Boston packing in the Eastern Conference finals before losing in the NBA Finals to the Golden State Warriors. Since then, Irving asked to be traded and provided a list of preferred destinations.
It was rumored the Celtics were among roughly 20 teams to reach out to Cleveland about the four-time All-Star, but it was reported as recently as last week that Boston had yet to make a formal offer.
The Cavs are reportedly seeking a package that includes a young star, veterans, and picks in return. Among the studs they were believed to be eyeing was No. 3 pick Jayson Tatum, but Boston wasn't willing to give him up. So instead, the Phoenix Suns and Minnesota Timberwolves have been the rumored front-runners for Irving's services.
Related: Cavs reportedly want young star in Kyrie trade in case LeBron leaves
Irving, 25, averaged a career-high 25.2 points to go along with 5.8 dimes, 3.2 rebounds, and 1.2 steals last season. He has two guaranteed years left on his contract that'll see him earn about $39 million. It's believed the former first overall pick wants out of Cleveland and into a situation where he can be the focal point, rather than playing second fiddle to LeBron James.
Thomas, 28, is coming off a career year that saw him average 28.9 points (third in the NBA), 5.9 assists, and 2.7 boards per contest for the Celtics, who finished atop the East. He has one year remaining on his bargain deal, and is expecting the next team to pay him to bring out a Brinks truck full of cash.
The Vertical's Shams Charania was first to report the story.
The 2017-18 regular season opens Oct. 17 with the Cavaliers hosting the Celtics.