Kyrie Irving competed with LeBron James for $50 million star.

LeBron James made a strong recruiting drive to Klay Thompson on behalf of the Los Angeles Lakers, but the Dallas Mavericks had their own secret weapon in Kyrie Irving.

When free agency started, both the Lakers and the Mavericks competed for Thompson’s services. According to ESPN’s Adrian Wojnarowski, James contacted Thompson immediately after free agency opened. James’ camp also stated that Thompson was a player with whom he would be willing to play at a lower salary.

Thompson, a five-time all-star, visited with both teams before making his decision. According to NBA insider Marc Stein, Irving’s presence played a key role in the talks.

“Thompson had four-year offers for more money, but taking less was offset by the chance to win a fifth championship with the Mavs and difference in state taxes,” according to Wojnarowski. “Agent Greg Lawrence of [Wasserman Basketball] led Thompson in serious talks with Mavs and Lakers, among others.”

The Lakers were reportedly willing to offer Thompson a four-year contract worth $80 million.

Thompson is seeking forgiveness following a difficult final season with the Golden State Warriors. Irving was an excellent spokesperson for his resurgence as a Mavs player.

Irving’s career was stalled, and he was in the news for all the wrong reasons when he was moved to the Mavs in 2023.

“I’m very responsible with what I say and what I do and how I approach my day-to-day life,” Irving stated during the May season. “And as a young person, I didn’t think about any of it.

I didn’t really know who I was as a person. I needed to sort that out. “And what you see now is a version of myself that I’m proud of. Every day, I glance in the mirror and tell myself positive affirmations. I meditate and pray.

I’m just being more regular with my everyday practices to help me stay grounded. Knowing your origins is an important part of knowing who you are.

“I’m very responsible with what I say and what I do and how I approach my day-to-day life,” Irving stated during the May season. “And as a young person, I didn’t think about any of it. I didn’t really know who I was as a person. I needed to sort that out.

James and his representatives stated that the four-time MVP would accept a pay reduction on his next contract with the Lakers if it meant acquiring a vital player. LeBron taking less might allow LA to use the whole mid-level exception, potentially luring a significant veteran.

Thompson, James Harden, and big man Jonas Valanciunas were all suggested as possible targets. However, all three have already signed new contracts elsewhere, leaving the Lakers looking for answers.

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