George wanted to join the Pelicans, and now Irving wanted to come too?!
New Orleans, a place no star had wanted to go before, had now become a coveted destination that stars were scrambling to pursue!
But that was only natural. The Pelicans had already won two straight championships, and with Tang Tian, the "Jordan of the current era," joining them meant a chance at a three-peat.
Anyone would want to fight for an opportunity to step into the spotlight like that.
And Irving had an even greater advantage over George: he was one of the Brothers of Hard Work!
They spent every summer together, so his chances of fitting into the Pelicans were far higher than George's.
Tang Tian had remained silent.
If Irving came, they really would be playing Brotherhood Basketball.
"I'm coming to New Orleans. I'll be there before tonight."
When Irving heard no response from Tang Tian, he spoke again.
"Alright."
Tang Tian agreed. Things like this were better discussed face-to-face.
His attitude was the same as it had been with George, and even earlier with Westbrook. He had little interest in Superteam Basketball.
And Irving's situation was even more unusual.
Irving did as he said. He arrived at Tang Tian's estate before dinner, just in time for the meal.
The two talked while they ate.
"Why do you want to leave the Cavaliers?"
Tang Tian did not rush to state his position. He asked Irving first.
"I don't like playing next to LeBron."
Irving hesitated for a while before finally speaking.
"You have no idea what Cleveland fans are like. You have no idea how they evaluated me after this year's Finals!"
Irving grew angry as he spoke.
"They said I was a defensive liability, said I disappeared in crucial moments, said the difference between