“Oh we’re at the applying pressure publicly stage”, “We’re gonna get fined for tampering lol" - Kyrie Irving sends LA Lakers fans into a frenzy as he shows up at LA Sparks’ WNBA game

By Arhaan Raje

Modified Nov 08, 2022 11:44 GMT

Kyrie Irving in action during Brooklyn Nets v New York Knicks

LA Lakers' rumored trade target Kyrie Irving sent fans into a frenzy following his appearance at the Crypto.com Arena on Thursday for a WNBA game between the LA Sparks and Seattle Storm.

The Lakers and Nets are reportedly in talks about a potential Russell Westbrook-Kyrie Irving swap. The Nets' demand for draft compensation has proven to be a sticking point so far, but there is optimism that a deal could be done.

Irving's appearance at the Crypto.com Arena further fuelled rumors of him potentially teaming up with LeBron James and Anthony Davis with the Lakers.

As such, Lakers fans couldn't contain their excitement, with videos of Irving's appearance at the LA Sparks' game going viral.

LA Lakers, Brooklyn Nets & San Antonio Spurs exploring 3-team trade involving Kyrie Irving

The LA Lakers are rumored to be the only team pursuing Kyrie Irving. Reports suggested the Nets wanted to include Joe Harris in the trade for cost-cutting purposes, given that they could get Russell Westbrook's $47 million expiring contract.

The Nets also want the Lakers' 2027 and 2029 first-round picks. However, LA have refused to part ways with draft picks and take on Harris' contract, instead asking for Seth Curry's expiring $8 million deal.

It is believed that the Brooklyn Nets don't wish to take on Russell Westbrook's contract, even if the LA Lakers offer picks, following which it was reported that the San Antonio Spurs could facilitate a deal by absorbing Westbrook's salary.

San Antonio are among the few teams with cap space. They are also rebuilding, so they will look for draft compensation.

Kyrie Irving is interested in going to LA to reunite with former Cleveland teammate LeBron James. Irving is clearly a better fit in LA than Westbrook and is bound to increase their chances of winning the title.

About the author

Arhaan Raje is an Assistant Content Manager and Senior Writer with Sportskeeda's NBA/WNBA team with four years of experience.

Arhaan focuses on features, trends, listicles, and the latest rumors and reports circling the league's top teams and players. He emphasizes detailed research to create impactful content for readers. A fan of Xs and Os, Arhaan provides technical deep dives in his reporting.

Arhaan completed his bachelor's degree in BBA in Media and Entertainment Management from Mumbai, India.

Arhaan admires the killer mentality of Kobe Bryant and Michael Jordan. He respects LeBron James for being a role model on and off the court. The bold and decisive Gregg Popovich stands out as Arhaan's favorite basketball coach. LeBron's epic chase-down block in the 2016 NBA Finals has a special place in Arhaan's basketball memories.

He has interviewed former NBA Defensive Player of the Year Gary Payton and Ronnie 2K, the face of NBA2k and Marketing Director.

Sports isn't the only passion he has pursued professionally. Arhaan is also into performing arts in the music industry as a percussionist.

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