Cleveland Cavalier fans can breathe a sigh of relief. On Thursday, ESPN's Chad Ford reported that Kyrie Irving was unhappy in the team and was looking to make an exit from the franchise as quickly as possible. Could Irving make a departure like LeBron James? Following a devastating loss to the New York Knicks, Irving said all rumors are not true.
"I'm in Cleveland. I enjoy myself. I enjoy going out and competing at the highest level for the Cleveland Cavaliers," Irving said, via ESPN.com. "It's not about me and it's not about this controversy -- 'Do I privately want out when my contract is up?' I'm still in my rookie contract and I'm happy to be here. And I'm pretty sure I'm going to be here for a long time."
Irving as one more season remaining on his rookie contract before he becomes a restricted free agent. The star says he not decided if he will sign a contract extension with the Cavaliers. The team has not officially offered a deal and cannot begin any negotiations until at least July 1. Irving could be an unrestricted free agent in 2016 is he signs just a qualifying offer. A long-term deal would obviously make him the most money if the Cavaliers were to offer a max contract.
"I'm not saying anything to tell the future, but I'm pretty sure the relationship I have with (owner) Dan Gilbert and management extends off the court. I enjoy being here," Irving said. "I'm still trying to get through this season. Everybody is trying to antagonize this team and put it on me to 'privately he wants out.' I'm here for my teammates, I'm here for Coach (Mike) Brown and the coaching staff and I'm going to play my heart out every single night for the Cleveland Cavaliers."
Irving's season has not gone exactly as planned. He is averaging 21.5 points and 6.2 assists per game. Both numbers are down from last season. He has also had off-the-court drama. He got into a verbal altercation with teammates following a loss. He was reportedly one of the reasons that Andrew Bynum had issues with the team and was eventually traded.
The Cavaliers are desperate to break their playoff streak. The team has not made it to the postseason since the loss of James. Owner Gilbert was hoping this could be the season with Irving, Tristan Thompson and Dion Waiters producing together, but results are not coming.
