What the heck is going on in Cleveland right now?
After the bombshell news broke late last week that All-Star point guard Kyrie Irving was demanding a trade to get away from LeBron James, a flurry of stories have popped up ranging from somewhat surprising to downright strange.
First, the Cavs announced they signed former MVP Derrick Rose to a one-year, $2.1 million deal (the veterans minimum). The long-time Chicago Bull point guard won the MVP in 2010-11, but was plagued by injuries in the next four seasons. When he finally seemed to be getting back on track, the Bulls traded him to the basketball equivalent of a black hole — the New York Knicks. Where careers go to die.
After a single, fairly average season with the Knicks (18 ppg, 3.8 rebounds, and 4.4 assists), Rose now finds himself on a championship contender. His new teammate LeBron James seems excited to have him.
Let's Rock G!!
— LeBron James (@KingJames) July 24, 2017
If Irving does indeed leave the Cavaliers, it will be interesting to see whether Rose can have a bit of a career renaissance playing alongside James. That remains to be seen, obviously, but one thing is for sure — LeBron seems fed up with having Irving for a teammate.
Initial reports said that James was “blindsided” by Irving’s trade request. Some reporters would later use the word “furious.” To kick things up a notch, ESPN’s Stephen A. Smith eventually suggested that LeBron was ready to throw fists the next time he saw Kyrie.
Audio of Stephen A saying Lebron want to give Kyrie the hands pic.twitter.com/bQaXdO21ex
— Brother Mouzone (@SCHEMEdeem) July 24, 2017
The NBA off-season is officially more fun than the actual NBA season.
Devon Taylor (@DevonTaylor113)
Devon has been writing about random things online since 2013. His favorite video game is Rocket League, his favorite TV show is The Sopranos, and he hated the last season of Game of Thrones. Follow him @DevonTaylor113.