Kyrie Irving rumors: Chris Broussard offers case for Brooklyn Nets considering a max contract for superstar guard

After starting the year off with off-the-court drama, Kyrie Irving has managed to keep his focus on basketball in recent weeks. The All-Star guard has started looking like his old self again, and it's helped the Brooklyn Nets shoot up the Eastern Conference standings.

Kyrie Irving has appeared in 28 games so far this year and has posted averages of 26.2 points, 5.0 rebounds and 4.6 assists. Alongside MVP-level play from Durant, the Nets sit in third place with a record of 25-13.

This offseason, it looked as though Irving may have been on his way out the door. Before opting into his player option, there were rumors of possible sign-and-trades. With his free agency looming, Brooklyn has a big decision to make.

During a recent episode of "First Things First," a debate broke out on what the Nets should do with Irving this summer. NBA insider Chris Broussard made the case that he should be offered a max contract:

"As much as I love Kyrie, the only way I consider giving him a full max, four years, 198 million, is if we win the championship.

"The Lakers, obviously LeBron would want to give him the max. I don't know what they decide to do."

Should the Brooklyn Nets offer Kyrie Irving a max contract this summer?

Chris Broussard said it best. The only scenario where the Brooklyn Nets give Kyrie Irving a full max contract is if they win the title this season. Outside of that, it is tough to make a case as to why he deserves one.

When the Nets first got Irving and Kevin Durant, they were expected to contend for multiple titles. They have fallen way short of expectations, in large part because of the All-Star point guard. Between injuries and drama outside of basketball, he has constantly been absent from the lineup.

With KD signed long-term, the Nets' hands might be tied. If they don't give Irving a good deal this summer, it could lead to the former MVP asking out again. With his running mate gone, there isn't much tying him to the organization.

There is no denying that Kyrie Irving is a high-level player in this league, but it comes down to results. If he isn't helping lead his team to a title, he isn't worth the baggage that comes with him.

Seeing how the team has turned things around, things are trending in the right direction for Irving. If he can maintain this level of play and stay out of the headlines, he might get the contract he wants this summer.