There is no denying that the Los Angeles Lakers’ elimination by the Denver Nuggets in the Western Conference Finals was a disappointing result for the team.

It seems likely that the Lakers will make some adjustments after this season to assist them climb over the hump and win a title once more. Superstar LeBron James appears to have a plan of action.

LeBron James wants the Lakers to switch out Russell for Irving, according to insiders speaking to Heavy Sports. Irving is seeking a maximum salary, but Los Angeles lacks the cap space to sign him, according to Ashish Mathur of Heavy Sports.

Without a question, Kyrie Irving is a stronger player overall than D’Angelo Russell, and he and LeBron James won the 2016 championship together while playing for the Cleveland Cavaliers. Irving would be a wonderful addition for the Lakers because they have prior playing experience together.

As a member of the Brooklyn Nets and Dallas Mavericks this season, Kyrie Irving averaged 27.1 points per game, 5.1 rebounds per game, and 5.5 assists per game. When healthy, he is an All-NBA talent, and we’ll see where he signs after free agency.

Kyrie Irving Can’t Expect Assistance From The Dallas Mavericks Through A Sign-and-Trade

Kyrie Irving’s sign-and-trade with the Lakers may not materialize because, according to a new rumor, the Mavericks won’t help with the transaction if D’Angelo Russell is the main target.

There’s basically no reason for the Mavericks to help Los Angeles if Irving decides to go there unless the Lakers somehow make Austin Reaves available in a return sign-and-trade or decide they’re prepared to move Anthony Davis — and they won’t. Particularly not if D’Angelo Russell is the token gesture, Tim Cato of The Athletic writes.

The Mavericks should just inform Irving up front what contract they would like him to re-sign, and while he has every right to go, they don’t intend to help any other team sign him. This needs tact, but it can be done. They give the most alluring deal.

The Mavericks would clearly prefer to keep Kyrie Irving than to allow him to leave for nothing or a poor sign-and-trade return. Some people think the star will always be with the squad, so we’ll see if the two parties can come to an agreement.