Looking for No. 1
So Kyrie Irving wants to be traded in order to escape the shadow of more illustrious teammate LeBron James. Fine. So, in support of his desire, he has specified San Antonio, New York, Minnesota, and Miami as his preferred destinations. Fine. So, in the context of developments featuring the rise of ball-dominant perimeter players like Russell Westbrook and James Harden, he, too, wants to be handed the reins of a franchise in order to fully showcase his prodigious talents. Fine.
For all but Irving’s most avid supporters (and James’ most vociferous critics), though, there seems to be something wrong with the picture. His demand to run his own team is premised on his belief that his career is being stunted, and that only when he gets first billing can he fully realize his potential for greatness. Well, he’s wrong. Even as it’s true that he signed a max contract even before a certain four-time league Most Valuable Player arrived to dispute his claim to the throne, it’s likewise verifiable fact that his numbers have steadily risen since, and through three straight Finals appearances. In other words, he has grown on the court, never mind that, in light of his shocking dissatisfaction, he continues to evade maturation off it.
Granted, Irving has every right to shape his fate as he sees fit. Perhaps he believes he can best learn how to be the go-to guy under Spursfirst Gregg Popovich. Perhaps he relishes the thought of becoming the savior of the dysfunctional Knicks, who, if nothing else, carry the privilege of burning rubber in the National Basketball Association’s most prominent market. Perhaps he understands the value of the Timberwolves’ defense-oriented system as crafted by taskmaster Tom Thibodeau. Perhaps he counts the pluses of plying his trade with the Heat while learning from Erik Spoelstra and Pat Riley. For as long as he refuses to enunciate the rationale behind his list of priority destinations, however, all and sundry are left to speculate on the triggers.
In any case, this much is evident: There can no longer be any turning back. By all indications, Irving has already dissociated from James. They were friendly, albeit not close. Now, he no longer follows his supposed mentor on social media even as he has stepped up his presence significantly. Under the circumstances, the Cavaliers are right to move on and act as if a mending of fences is no longer possible. They’re listening to all offers coming their way, and will, sooner rather than later, pull the trigger on the one they deem most equitable.
Through all the tumult, the hope is that Irving will find peace of mind. He was the envy of many a point guard, riding shotgun while also claiming time in the spotlight — and, in so doing, found collective success. Now he’s looking out for Number One, and whether the idea of winning factored in on his decision to abandon a cushy situation is debatable. He boasts of a unique skill set, so he figures to thrive no matter where he ends up. Whether those around him will flourish as well is another matter altogether.
Through all the tumult, the hope is that Irving will find peace of mind. He was the envy of many a point guard, riding shotgun while also claiming time in the spotlight — and, in so doing, found collective success. Now he’s looking out for Number One, and whether the idea of winning factored in on his decision to abandon a cushy situation is debatable.