Boston Celtics Trade Rumors: Kyrie Irving backed to leave Boston this summer

What's the story?

The Boston Celtics were last night crushed by the Toronto Raptors, a result that left many questioning the future of Kyrie Irving. Irving's future in Boston was already in doubt due to his contract expiring this summer, and after another heavy Celtics defeat, some analysts are speculating that Irving has already taken the decision to leave.

Among them is ESPN's Stephen A. Smith, who today told 'First Take' that Irving won't remain in Boston:

Kyrie's gone, Kyrie won't be in Boston next year. What went through my mind when I watched them get outscored 36-13 in the second quarter, when I watched them get blown outta Canada, what was going through my mind was that Kyrie wasn't staying here.

In the end what it comes down to is Kyrie Irving. When it comes down to it being his team, it's not the Boston Celtics. Bottom line is I watch that last night and I said to myself this ain't the place for Kyrie Irving. Come July 1st, he's gone.

In case you didn't know...

Irving was selected by the Cleveland Cavaliers as the first pick of the 2011 draft. The point guard went on to spend six years in Cleveland, most notably playing a major role in the Cavs' 2016 NBA Finals win over the Golden State Warriors.

Nevertheless, Irving requested a trade 12 months later due to his desire to lead his own team, and the 26-year-old has since established himself as the face of the Celtics.

The heart of the matter

Entering the season, the Celtics were the favorites to advance from the Eastern Conference, although Brad Stevens' men are currently struggling to replicate the form shown by the likes of the Milwaukee Bucks and Philadelphia 76ers.

Due to this, Irving may feel that he has a better chance of winning a Championship as part of another franchise, and upon hitting free-agency this summer, the six-time All-Star will have no shortage of options.