Every morning, we compile the links of the day and dump them here… highlighting the big story line. Because there’s nothing quite as satisfying as a good morning dump.
The Celtics are among the teams that have continued to have trade discussions with the Cavaliers about All-Star point guard Kyrie Irving, league sources said, but Cleveland’s urgency to make a deal remains unclear.
Last month Irving asked to be traded, reportedly because he wanted to be out of LeBron James’s shadow. The Celtics would be a logical trade partner for the same reason they would be a logical trade partner for any team willing to part with a star: They have perhaps the league’s shiniest collection of stars, young players, and assets.
On Tuesday, ESPN reported that Cleveland had expressed interest in Celtics rookie Jayson Tatum, the third overall pick of this year’s draft. Boston would have to part with other pieces to acquire a player of Irving’s caliber, and also to come within $5 million of his $18.9 million salary, per league rules.
If the Celtics acquired Irving, it would likely signal the end of Isaiah Thomas’s tenure in Boston. The Celtics might have reservations about whether it is worth parting with their own All-Star point guard in addition to several other assets in exchange for Irving.
A report about the Celtics involvement in trade talks doesn’t qualify as earth shattering news, but I remain intrigued with their interest in Kyrie Irving. I believe nearly all of us at Red’s Army are against a blockbuster deal that includes IT, Jae Crowder and a future lottery pick or some iteration that includes Jaylen Brown or Jason Tatum.
But what if their “interest” is related to Isaiah Thomas’ new contract? Maybe Isaiah is really pushing for a max extension and not a discounted 3-4 year deal worth with a $30 million AAV. If that’s the case, a trade might be the best play.
PS – We’re about 5 weeks away from training camp.
On Page 2, LeBron James keeps up his criticism of Donald Trump.
Hate has always existed in America. Yes we know that but Donald Trump just made it fashionable again! Statues has nothing to do with us now!
— LeBron James (@KingJames) August 15, 2017
LeBron made some additional comments later in the day.
It’s safe to say I’m not James’ biggest fan but I fully support athletes (and other prominent public figures) who vocally address civic and social issues. And this has nothing to do with James and I being on the same side of this particular issue (e.g., hate groups are evil).
I’m done preaching.
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