Rumors of LeBron James and the Los Angeles Lakers’ reignited interest in acquiring Kyrie Irving from the Brooklyn Nets spread through the Internet recently after James’ contract extension with the LA team. However, the Nets have completely shattered the possibility of a Kyrie Irving deal, according to recent reports. As a result, a Russell Westbrook-Kyrie Irving swap has turned out to be an impossible ask for LeBron James and the Lakers.

King James recently signed a massive two-year $97.1 million contract extension with the Lakers. The deal will keep the superstar in LA through the 2024-25 season. As a result of the deal, rumors of an Irving-Westbrook trade reignited in the NBA circuits.

However, the Brooklyn Nets have reportedly shut down those rumors pretty clearly. As per the latest reports, Irving will start the 2022-23 season in Nets apparel.

The Brooklyn Nets shuts down Kyrie Irving trade rumors

The Athletic’s Shams Charania has reported that the Brooklyn Nets have made it clear that they are not interested in any trade talks involving Kyrie Irving with any of the teams in the league. In fact, they are confident that the 30-year-old star would stay in New York for the upcoming season.

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Meanwhile, rumors of a Westbrook-Irving swap had dominated NBA media outlets all summer. However, those rumors died down significantly after Irving decided to exercise his player option for the next season.

But King James’ contract extension further reignited the hopes of a potential reunion between the two 2016 NBA champion teammates. According to reports, the Lakers superstar has always been adamant to acquire Kyrie. But his new contract provided the Lakers with added incentive to give up 2027 and 2029 first-round picks for a trade with Brooklyn.

LeBron James and the Lakers in the upcoming season

Last season, the Los Angeles Lakers had an underwhelming showing in the regular season. In an attempt to fix their dysfunctional roster, the LA team has tried to trade Russell Westbrook all offseason.

However, with a Kyrie Irving trade off the table, the California side has to figure out a way to utilize the 2017 MVP. New head coach Darvin Ham had promised to work with the 33-year-old star before his appointment.

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In the upcoming season, Ham faces an uphill battle to fulfil his promise.