The Los Angels Lakers have emerged as the most "significant threat" to acquire Kyrie Irving should he be unable to come to terms on a deal with the Brooklyn Nets. The Lakers lack the cap flexibility to sign Irving to a commensurate contract, which makes the situation complicated for Irving financially. Irving has a $36.5 million player option for the 22-23 season with the Nets. 

"The Lakers are considered the most significant threat right now for Kyrie Irving, but that would essentially entail him taking $30 million less than he can opt into in Brooklyn," said Wojnarowski on NBA Today. "There's a $6 million taxpayer exemption he can sign with the Lakers. Now, most people would say a player is not going to give up that much money, but Kyrie Irving gave up nearly $17 million last year because of his refusal to get vaccinated. He's in the process of losing a shoe deal with Nike.

"I think the Nets have gone into this with their eyes open that it's possible he can walk. He's done things differently in his career, but I think there's a sweet spot for the Nets and Kyrie Irving to find a deal. If they don't, how does that impact Kevin Durant's future with the Nets. All of that is at stake this week."

The Nets are hesitant to sign Irving to a long-term deal.