Kyrie Irving just wants to be happy and play winning basketball. At least that what he repeatedly elocuted during his time on ESPN’s First Take.
The 25-year-old point guard was up for a massive raise had he stayed with the Cleveland Cavaliers. In 2019, Irving would have been eligible for a $200 million “supermax” contract.
It seems that the chance to chase his destiny is as priceless as it comes to the 3-time All-Star.
“You can’t put a price tag on happiness and truth,” Irving told Steven A. Smith. “I waived my 5.8 million trade kicker, Irving continued, “obviously a lot of [money] clearly does not matter in terms of my what intent ultimately will be and always has been.”
The NBA Champion guard feels he is more than capable of winning on the highest stage out the way of LeBron James. Irving wouldn’t go into detail about his relationship with James, but it’s clear he has moved past the situation.
What Irving accomplished in Cleveland alongside James shouldn’t be discredited. To operate as the second best player on championship team takes a unique gift.
It has become apparent that Irving was unhappy in Cleveland. Whatever the cause may have been, it gave Irving much incentive to leave money on the table. In Boston next year, Irving is set to make almost $19 million.
The talented point guard is a transcendent competitor who feels he can get better at his game. Even if that means getting out of his comfort zone to do it.
Steph Curry and James Harden have both signed to similarly large deals to stay with the Golden State Warriors and Houston Rockets, respectively. The Oklahoma City Thunder are still waiting on Russell Westbrook to sign his max-extension worth over $200 million.
For Irving, the money takes a backseat to knowing that he will be counted on every night to deliver as the face of a franchise
