Lakers, Nets discussing potential Kyrie Irving-Russell Westbrook trade / News - Basketnews.com

Credit: AFP – Scanpix Credit AFP – Scanpix

The Los Angeles Lakers and Brooklyn Nets are actively engaged in discussions on a trade package that would send star point guard Russell Westbrook to Brooklyn in exchange for star point guard Kyrie Irving, according to Chris Haynes of Yahoo Sports.

3-pointers this season

36%11,4Points made:11,4Accuracy:36,3%Place in standings:23Record max:22Record min:5Most made 3FGs:Patrick MillsTeamNBAStatisticsSchedule

"There's palpable optimism that an agreement can be struck between the two sides this offseason, but there remain a few hurdles, sources said," Haynes wrote.

Haynes reports draft compensation is an ongoing talking point for the Nets, who want shooting guard Joe Harris — who is recovering from left ankle surgery — included in the deal. But the Lakers would prefer sharpshooter Seth Curry, who is on an expiring $8.5 million deal.

The talks remain fluid as Brooklyn listens to proposals from teams attempting to make a play for Kevin Durant, who requested a trade just before the start of free agency.

In case of the trade, the 30-year-old Irving would reunite with LeBron James. The tandem helped the Cleveland Cavaliers to the 2016 NBA championship.

Irving, a seven-time All-Star, averaged 27.4 points, 5.8 assists, and 4.4 rebounds in 29 starts this past season, but missed a significant number of home games due to his unvaccinated status.

The 33-year-old Westbrook registered 18.5 points, 7.4 rebounds, and 7.1 assists with 10 triple-doubles in 78 starts last campaign. However, the Lakers have been eliminated from playoff contention with a team that did not jell.

Moreover, Westbrook's scoring average was his lowest since 2009-10, and his 3-point percentage (29.8% 3PT) ranked 251st out of 278 NBA players who attempted at least 100 shots from beyond the arc.

Support BasketNews so we could make even better content.