New York Knicks Kyrie Irving
(Photo by Maddie Meyer/Getty Images)

Kyrie Irving is in the perfect situation with the Boston Celtics. So why is there chatter about the superstar coming to the New York Knicks?

When Kyrie Irving forced his way out of Cleveland during the 2017 offseason, there was a real possibility that he would find his way to the New York Knicks. Of course, Irving ended up in Boston, but that’s no guarantee that he will be there forever.

According to a report from Chris Mannix of Yahoo Sports, Irving to New York could still be a possibility. Mannix discussed this possibility on his podcast:

“I think they’re scared. I think they’re scared and should be scared to some degree of Kyrie Irving walking in 2019. I know he had a great year, but you know there are people in Cleveland that will tell you that the Knicks should be considered a real threat for Kyrie Irving. Because Kyrie had talked about it, about playing with the Knicks with some players in that Cleveland locker room from what I was told.”

Irving can opt out after next season and although it’s expected that he’s going to re-sign with the Celtics, a lot can change in a year. This isn’t something that Knicks fans should work themselves up about—yet.

Yes, it still seems unlikely, but there are plenty of reasons why Kyrie would want to come to New York. Irving grew up in West Orange, New Jersey. He graduated from the legendary St. Patrick High School in Elizabeth, where he played for one of the best high school coaches in the country — Kevin Boyle.

In addition to his roots in the New York area, the Knicks could be set up to win immediately if they add a talent like Irving. With the ninth pick in this year’s draft and a lottery pick in 2019 already looking like a foregone conclusion, the team is going to have young talent on the roster.

And let’s not forget the biggest reason Irving would likely want to play in Madison Square Garden—Kristaps Porzingis. KP and Irving could be deadly in the pick and roll. Add in Frank Ntilikina in the backcourt to take on the toughest defensive assignments and New York looks like an enticing destination for Irving.

With all this being said, it’s important to remember that Irving is already in an excellent situation. He’s surrounded by young talent, a great coach, and a basketball-crazed city that is ready to worship him.

But if his desire to come to New York is as great as some people believe, Kyrie in the orange and blue isn’t as farfetched as once thought. Hey, crazier things have happened.

 
NY/NJ hoops reporter (NBA/NCAA) & sports betting writer for XL Media. Never had the makings of a varsity athlete.