Kyrie Irving didn't mention Lebron James in his goodbye video to Cleveland, which he posted shortly after his deal to the Celtics finally went through.
It's been widely reported that Irving wanted away from the Cavs because he was tired of playing second fiddle to Lebron, who he also believed had a habit of treating him like a child.
[Related: Reason Kyrie Irving is so sick of Lebron James revealed.]
Irving did address James today during his Celtics introductory press conference
“No. I haven’t spoken to him,” Irving said, when asked about Lebron at the half hour presser. “I’d be lying to you guys if I didn’t tell you how much I learned from that guy,” he continued. “The perfection of the craft comes in a variety of forms, and you ask a lot of the great players, ‘What does it take to be great?’ I’ve had the unique opportunity to play with one of the greats, and it was awesome. … When you look back and you’re eternally grateful for the moments you’ve had and you’ve shared, you’re able to put peace with that journey and start anew. This was a very, very challenging decision at first, but after a while, you understand and you have that confidence in yourself to understand the magnitude of what you actually can accomplish and potentially can do with other great people. Now that I’m sitting here, it just echoes in terms of me being very appreciative of the Cleveland fans and all of Ohio, as well as Bron incorporating me into that special team that we had, because three Finals in a row, all the shared memories with all the individuals … the brotherhood exists, even without all of this, and it will continue. That’s exactly where it is, and I’m very appreciative of it.”
There was some subliminal shade too.
Kyrie Irving: "Me leaving (Cleveland) wasn't about basketball."
— Kristian Winfield (@Krisplashed) September 1, 2017
— Sports Illustrated (@SInow) September 1, 2017
Now that the trade is finally complete, do you think Boston or Cleveland will be better in 17-18?