Kyrie Irving Trade Rumors: Lakers Have 'Significant Concerns' About Nets PG

If Irving was traded to the Brooklyn Nets, the Los Angeles Lakers were seen as a possible landing spot for him.

According to Sam Amick of The Athletic, the Lakers have significant concerns about adding Irving at any price and have not been focused on that scenario all season. Irving is serving a five game suspension for promoting an antisemitic film.

The Nets were rumored to be ready to move on from Irving as he was the subject of a lot of speculation. Irving was considering taking the taxpayer mid-level exception to play for the Lakers before he exercised his $37 million player option.

Chris Haynes reported for Yahoo Sports that Los Angeles and Brooklyn were involved in discussions about a potential trade for Irving. Brooklyn moved forward without making significant changes to its core in hopes of competing for an NBA title this season after the trade request by Kevin Durant was withdrawn.

There was still talk about Irving wanting to join the Lakers. Stephen A. Smith reported last month that Irving wants to sign with the Los Angeles Lakers when he becomes a free agent next summer.

Hoop Central @TheHoopCentral

Stephen A. Smith: "This is their (Kevin Durant and Kyrie Irving) last season together. They're not re-signing with Brooklyn. Kyrie is not re-signing with Brooklyn. Kyrie is planning to go to Los Angeles.”

(h/t @_Talkin_NBA)

pic.twitter.com/BZ46udCwvv

Irving didn't do much to improve his perception before he was suspended. The 30-year-old caused uproar on the court for his refusal to receive the COVID-19 vaccine and his opposition to vaccine mandates. He became the source of even more controversy when he posted a link to a film about black people.

As part of their announcement of Irving's suspension, the Nets said they were dismayed that he wouldn't say he has no antisemitic beliefs. The seven-time All-Star apologized in a statement.

Ben Golliver @BenGolliver

Kyrie Irving issues an apology amid antisemitism controversy that led to his suspension by Nets: “To all Jewish families and communities that are hurt and affected from my post, I am deeply sorry to have caused you pain, and I apologize.” pic.twitter.com/QUXt1WtK2g

Irving averaged 26.9 points, 5.1 rebound and 5.1 assists in eight games. Heading into Monday's game against the Dallas Mavericks, the Nets are 3-6 with him in the lineup.