TDL Archived: The 2nd Rnd Pick Yankee Swap

[Tyler]

I don't know that Kyrie would be open to an extend-and-trade, but to me it's a non-starter if he has no interest. Even with that, I'm still sensitive to what BKN will accept in trade, because balancing the payroll pressure and minutes are as much of the package as the talent and risk he brings.

I see this as showtime for Nico. This type of relationship issue is exactly why Cuban hired him.

Irving clearly doesn't trust Brooklyn, and I'm sure the feeling is mutual. But perhaps Nico can use the trust he has built with players over the years to say something like:

"Look -- we want you here long term. But we need a 2 year extension commitment from you now to make it happen. I'm going to assume it all works out, and you can trust me to make it right in the long run. And in the meantime, need a hand with a new shoe deal?"

If Nico can make that pitch work, I think we're in business. And BTW, that level of trust is also something the famously fickle Lakers definitely cannot offer.