Report: Cavs attempted to move Kyrie before trade demand
The drama between Kyrie Irving and the Cleveland Cavaliers may have another layer.
Before being dealt to the Boston Celtics, Irving spoke to the Cavaliers' front office, demanding a trade. However, league and team sources told ESPN's Jackie MacMullan that Cleveland had previously entered discussions over Irving with the Phoenix Suns.
The suggested trade had Eric Bledsoe - who is represented by LeBron James' good friend Rich Paul - going to the Cavaliers.
Sources close to Kyrie told MacMullan that he believed it was James' camp who orchestrated the trade talks.
"I didn't feel the need to say anything because I knew the truth, and so did they. So it didn't matter what others said," Irving told MacMullan of the incessant speculation that followed his request.
After three straight NBA Finals appearances - including hoisting the Larry O'Brien trophy in 2016 - the Cavs' reported attempt to trade him sparked his emotions toward the perceived unrealistic possibility of remaining in Cleveland.
"They didn't want me there," he said.