Report: Growing uncertainty that Kyrie will re-sign with Celtics
The Boston Celtics may have more to worry about than not being able to join the pre-trade deadline Anthony Davis sweepstakes.
There's a growing belief that Kyrie Irving may not re-sign with the Celtics despite his vow at the start of the season to do so, league sources told Yahoo Sports' Chris Haynes.
Boston is not a top target for New Orleans Pelicans star Anthony Davis, sources told Haynes.
The Celtics can offer the Pelicans a collection of young assets and picks but cannot trade for Davis until the offseason because Irving and Davis each signed "Rose Rule" extensions on their current contracts.
The "Rose Rule" allows a player finishing his rookie contract to make 30 percent of a team's salary cap if he's twice been voted an All-Star starter, twice been voted All-NBA, or won an MVP award.
A team can have two "Rose Rule" players but only one can be acquired via trade. The Celtics picked up Irving from the Cleveland Cavaliers in a blockbuster deal in August 2017.
Boston can make a play for Davis only if Irving leaves or agrees to a new deal. The five-time All-Star will be an unrestricted free agent this offseason.
Irving is averaging 23.7 points, 6.9 assists, and 4.8 boards per contest.