LeBron shares cryptic tweet following Irving trade

Team Lebron forward Lebron James of the Los Angeles Lakers (23) celebrates with Team Lebron guard Kyrie Irving of the Boston Celtics (11) during the 2019 NBA All-Star Game at Spectrum Center. Bob Donnan-USA TODAY Sports

LeBron James shares cryptic tweet following Kyrie Irving trade to Mavs

By Mike Santa Barbara | Last updated 2/5/23

The Kyrie Irving sweepstakes ended abruptly on Sunday, just a day after the disgruntled guards' trade request. While the Dallas Mavericks ultimately came away with Irving, LeBron James seems displeased with the Los Angeles Lakers for missing out on his former teammate.

Shortly after the Irving trade broke, James shared a cryptic Tweet which read, "Maybe it's me," no doubt referencing the news.

Maybe It’s Me
— LeBron James (@KingJames) February 6, 2023

Who James is referring to, whether it be general manager Rob Pelinka or the franchise as a whole, the "King" doesn't sound happy.

James has hinted at wanting improvements on the Lakers throughout the year and was outspoken about his desire for a reunion with Irving in LA. On Saturday, when asked if Irving was the type of player that could help the Lakers, James said it was a "Duh question."

Perhaps even more frustrating for James is the Lakers' reported offer for Irving, which included Russell Westbrook and a first-round pick. The Nets received Spencer Dinwiddie, Dorian Finney-Smith, a first-rounder, and multiple second-round picks in return for Irving.

Watching another clear upgrade head elsewhere may have James' patience running thin, especially with the NBA trade deadline only four days away.

James may not have a flashy trade deadline acquisition to look forward to, but he is on pace to make NBA history this week. He'll enter Tuesday's matchup at home against the Oklahoma City Thunder, only 36 points away from passing Kareem Abdul-Jabbar for the NBA's all-time scoring record.

If James fails to surpass Kareem on Tuesday, he'll have another chance on Thursday in front of the home fans at the Crypto.com Center when the Lakers host the Milwaukee Bucks.

How fitting would it be for James to top scoring mark in a Lakers uniform at home against Abdul-Jabbar's first team? Though James would probably agree that his celebration would be even more exciting if it came after a roster-improving move from the Lakers' front office.

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