In the NBA, talent is the most important variable. With that said, it isn’t the only one either.

Mentality counts as well. Reliability, professionalism, whichever words you prefer to use – we know them when we see them. Conversely, we typically know when we aren’t seeing them as well.

Take Kyrie Irving for example. He’s got all the talent in the world. He may be the best dribbler in the history of the sport. No defense can deter him from taking a shot, and he always has a shot at making it.

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1 Trade Package With Each Linked Russell Westbrook Suitor

At the same time, he sure feels like a headache. Irving has left wreckage in his wake after leaving more than one NBA team.

In fact, the last time he appeared remotely professional, he was playing alongside LeBron James.

Here are three trades that find them resuming their partnership on the Los Angeles Lakers.

Indiana Pacers Receive: G Russell Westbrook, 2027 First-Round Pick (LAL), 2029 First-Round Pick (LAL)

Brooklyn Nets Receive: C Myles Turner, G/F Buddy Hield

Los Angeles Lakers Receive: G Kyrie Irving

Of course, Irving isn’t the only Brooklyn Net with uncertain status heading into 2022-23.