Former NFL star hints at shocking Kyrie Irving exit from Mavericks for LeBron James reunion

Former NFL star hints at shocking Kyrie Irving exit from Mavericks for LeBron James reunion originally appeared on The Sporting News.
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Kyrie Irving is entering a new chapter with a significantly revamped Dallas Mavericks organization. The franchise has undergone major changes this offseason. Dallas is also beginning a new era after selecting generational prospect Cooper Flagg with the No. 1 overall pick in the NBA Draft.

Despite the Mavericks’ commitment to building around Irving and Flagg, trade speculation surrounding the veteran guard has continued to circulate. Most recently, former NFL star Chad Johnson suggested the possibility of Irving leaving Dallas to reunite with LeBron James in Miami.

“What about the opportunity of Kyrie going to Miami. I’m telling y’all again ahead of time. I get a chance to throw these hints out but nobody is really picking up what I’m putting down. What are the chances of Kyrie going down to Miami?” Johnson said.

Former NBA guard Joe Johnson also expressed his support for the idea, saying he would enjoy watching Irving reunite with James after their successful stint together in Cleveland.

“I love it bro — I’m a big fan of Kyrie. I wouldn’t mind seeing him and Bron get back together,” Joe said.

James is currently an unrestricted free agent after his contract with the Los Angeles Lakers expired. He has already informed the organization that he does not intend to return. The Miami Heat, Cleveland Cavaliers, and Golden State Warriors have emerged as the teams most frequently mentioned as potential landing spots.

Meanwhile, the Mavericks have consistently maintained that they want Irving to remain in Dallas. The team reportedly views him as a crucial veteran leader alongside No. 1 overall pick Cooper Flagg. 

However, with Miami continuing to be aggressive in reshaping its roster this offseason, speculation is unlikely to disappear. If James ultimately identifies the Heat as his preferred destination, team president Pat Riley could explore every possible avenue to assemble a roster capable of reuniting the former championship-winning duo.

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