Cleveland Cavaliers superstar LeBron James vehemently denied reports that he wants to “beat Kyrie Irving’s ass” after the latter demanded a trade. James tweeted “#NotFacts people! Boooo!! Get another source” as he addressed reports by Slam Online that claimed he was unhappy with Irving’s trade request and he would be tempted to beat his teammate’s ass. He ended his tweet with “#EnjoyingMySummer #YouDoTheSame.”

In addition, James denied a report by Joe Vardon of Cleveland.com that he’s “eager” for the Cavaliers to trade Irving after they signed veteran point guard Derrick Rose to a one-year, $2.1 million deal.

In his podcast, Stephen A. Smith of ESPN said that James may be tempted to beat Irving after he was labeled a bad teammate when the latter’s trade demand became public. Irving met with the Cavaliers' team owner Dan Gilbert on July 7 and asked for a trade, saying that he’s tired of playing second fiddle to James. Irving also mentioned the San Antonio Spurs, Minnesota Timberwolves, Miami Heat, and the New York Knicks as his preferred destinations. Smith also claimed that Irving’s camp believes that James leaked to the media his trade demand after he discovered it.

Irving unfollowed James on Instagram?

According to Bleacher Report, Irving reportedly unfollowed James on Instagram after reports surfaced that his teammate was unhappy with his trade demand and wanted to hurt him. Days ago, James posted two songs by rapper Meek Mill – “Wins and Losses” and “Heavy Heart” -- on his Instagram page with lyrics alluding to Irving, including the line “N—– said they with you when they really not” from the song “Heavy Heart."

Derrick Rose to replace Irving

Vardon reported that James can’t wait for Irving to leave town after the Cavaliers agreed to a one-year contract worth $2.1 million with Rose, the 2011 MVP.

Rose played 64 games with the New York Knicks last season, averaging 18.0 points and 4.4 assists before his season was cut short by an injury. In his career, Rose averaged 19.5 points and 6.0 assists in 470 career games.

Despite playing second fiddle to James, Irving had a career year, averaging 25.2 points, 5.8 assists and 3.2 rebounds per game last season.

He also stepped up in the playoffs with averages of 25.9 points, 5.3 assists, and 2.8 rebounds per game, but the team lost to the Golden State Warriors in the NBA Finals in five games. Aside from Rose, the Cavs signed veteran Jose Calderon primarily as Irving’s backup. However, with Irving’s days in Cleveland now numbered, Calderon may see some playing time as Rose’s backup.
© ALL RIGHTS RESERVED