Lakers Rumors: Why Kyrie Irving, Los Angeles Might Not Meet In 2019 NBA Offseason, Despite Report

The idea that Kyrie Irving might sign with the Los Angeles Lakers this summer seemed like an impossibility a few months ago. That changed in January when the point guard admitted he apologized to LeBron James for his actions during their time with the Cleveland Cavaliers, and a new report suggests that the free-agent-to-be is already preparing to consider reuniting with his former teammate in L.A.

According to ESPN's Stephen A. Smith, Irving will grant the Lakers a meeting this summer. Los Angeles is expected to be on a short list of teams the All-Star will consider joining this offseason.

Irving has refused to commit to re-signing with the Boston Celtics during what's being a disappointing season. The New York Knicks are expected to be a major player for the 27-year-old, and there are rumors that he could team up with Kevin Durant in the Big Apple. The Brooklyn Nets have been speculated as a possible destination for Irving, though the emergence of D'Angelo Russell as an All-Star might make that a long shot.

Smith's report doesn't come as a major surprise in the wake of what's gone on between Boston and Irving over the past few months. Of all the star players that are expected to hit free agency, Irving might actually be the most likely to sign a max contract with the Lakers.

The Lakers are not considered to be the favorites for any of the top free agents that will hit the market. There are also reasons to doubt that Irving and Los Angeles will actually meet about a possible partnership.

It was less than a year ago that Smith reported on ESPN's “First Take” that James would have a conversation with Boston and the Golden State Warriors, among other teams, about signing with them last offseason. Perhaps those talks went unreported, but it doesn't sound like James actually spoke with the Celtics or the defending champs about playing for them.

James only met with the Cavaliers and Lakers in free agency. His agent, Rich Paul, met with the front office of the Philadelphia 76ers, though it's believed the superstar never actually considered joining them over Cleveland or Los Angeles.

Smith, of course, has had many accurate reports. Irving might be planning on speaking with the Lakers, though that doesn't mean an interview will actually happen when the two sides are allowed to speak in a few months.

Irving is one of the most unpredictable players in the NBA. He said before the season started that he planned to stay in Boston and has since reversed course on those comments.

What if the Celtics make a run to the 2019 NBA Finals? He could sign a five-year contract with Boston as soon as free agency begins. The Celtics can offer the point guard more money than anyone else.

ESPN's Brian Windhorst indicated on his “Hoop Collective” podcast last week that he doesn't envision Irving signing with the Lakers because of James’ presence on the team. ESPN's Ramona Shelburne expressed similar skepticism, though she wouldn't rule out the possibility.

The Lakers will have one max salary slot available this summer. Irving and the Celtics are the No.4 seed in the Eastern Conference with the playoffs just around the corner.