Image: LeBron James and Kyrie Irving’s Instagram
LeBron James was left shocked by Kyrie Irving’s Trade
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LeBron James’ career is filled with spectacular highlights and accomplishments. The LA Lakers legend has pulled off massive wins throughout his entire run on the court. However, he’s had to face some difficulties as well that have left a deep mark on him.
One of them was the day his close teammate, Kyrie Irving, was traded to the Boston Celtics in 2017. The duo of Irving and LeBron had proved to be a championship-winning duo for Lue. However, Irving’s move signified that his former teammate was focused on competing with LeBron rather than being by his side forever.
Tyronn Lue has recalled the story and the moment LeBron learned about the move on the “Club Shay Shay” podcast. He detailed that Irving had made up his mind to move to the Boston Celtics, and nothing was going to stop him. Lue further added that he wouldn’t have let it happen and that he pleaded for it not to move forward.
“He had made his mind up. That’s like a Kobe and Shaq situation. I wouldn’t have let that happen. I begged and pleaded.”
LeBron Was Devastated By Irving’s Move To The Boston Celtics
LeBron James has had his fair share of moves to other teams throughout his distinguished career. The 40-year-old legend had been the first draft pick for the Cleveland Cavaliers back in 2003. He then played for them for seven seasons until he made his move to the Miami Heat. He finally moved back to the Cavaliers and reunited with Kyrie Irving in a championship-winning season in 2016.
Many people had hoped the duo would create more magic together, but Irving had other plans. He had requested a trade over to the Cavaliers’ fierce rivals, the Boston Celtics. It was clear that Irving wanted to bring the heat to Lebron rather than stay in his shadow.
Tyronn Lue was the head coach of the Cleveland Cavaliers and saw the trade’s drama go down up close. Lue revealed the moment Lebron learned about the move during an autograph signing. He stated that the move left him completely devastated and silent for about ten minutes.
Tyronn Lue told the story of a “pissed off” LeBron James after finding out Kyrie Irving was traded to the Boston Celtics in 2017:
“Bron was doing an autograph signing with jerseys for his foundation… he dropped the marker & just lays back in his chair for about 10 minutes,… pic.twitter.com/dZR5XgQK7v
— Courtside Buzz (@CourtsideBuzzX) August 28, 2025 How Tyronn Lue’s Story Sheds Light On A Franchise-Altering Move
Tyronn Lue’s story about Kyrie Irving’s move to the Boston Celtics draws you into a heated time in NBA history. While LeBron would forever be hailed in the GOAT debate, Irving’s trade makes you wonder if he wanted to challenge his former teammate for the throne.
Irving’s exit also signaled a hugely disappointing next season for the Cleveland Cavaliers. LeBron and his team would have to face a massive NBA Finals loss to the Golden State Warriors and would enter a huge rebuild. LeBron would finally exit the team as well and join the Los Angeles Lakers for the 2017-18 season and make history there.