Grade the Trade: Celtics pull off Kyrie Irving reunion in risky proposal

What would a Kyrie sign-and-trade look like?

There are likely some people in the Boston Celtics’ front office who would be against a Kyrie Irving addition at all costs, as would many of the fans. Yet the reality is that talent wins championships, and Irving would be the most talented player the Celtics have any hope of recruiting.

Because Boston is well over the salary cap, to sign Irving they will need to work out a sign-and-trade with the Dallas Mavericks. The Mavs certainly won’t want to help a player leave their team, but the Celtics would offer enough to make it worth their while.

Losing a star player is never easy, but many Mavericks fans will be happy to see him go. In return, Derrick White could likely start alongside Luka Doncic in the backcourt. He would be a defensive pest and an offensive player who could get hot at any moment. Grant Williams would find a new home on a team that desperately needs a player like him.

The Mavericks would only do this deal if Irving gave them no choice, but that appears to be his modus operandi. Even if Dallas says yes, however, should the Celtics agree to the trade?