Boston Celtics: 5 wildly ambitious free agency targets in next 3 years

Kyrie Irving, PG, Cleveland Cavaliers

When he’ll be available: Free agent in 2019 (player option) or 2020

Let’s go back to that hypothetical where the Celtics let Thomas leave. It’s a risky move for sure, but there’s a least a small chance it happens if the diminutive point guard gets feisty during contract negotiations. So what’s the plan after that?

Well let’s assume that Westbrook doesn’t work out. My guess would be that he re-signs with the Thunder, especially considering the loyalty angle he loves to push. Let’s then say that they opt to stick with Marcus Smart as their starter for the time being, deciding against adding any big names via free agency. Maybe a rookie helps out at the point as well during the 2018-19 season.

Then the 2019 offseason rolls around and Kyrie Irving becomes available. Chances are that, no matter which team he’s playing for this season and next, he’ll test the free agency waters when he can. He’ll be looking for an opportunity to be the star of the show, an opportunity he hasn’t had since LeBron James‘ return to Cleveland.

Depending on the Celtics’ financial situation at that point, they seem like legitimate contenders for Irving’s services. They could team him with Hayward, who is a star in his own right but wouldn’t overshadow the dynamic point guard by any means. It would also provide him an opportunity to remain in contention.

Next: Celtics' top trade candidates before 2018 deadline

Losing Thomas for the 2018-19 campaign would be a difficult blow to battle through. Landing Irving during 2019 free agency, though, would be an awesome consolation prize.