Chapter 338: If You Can’t Beat ‘Em…
Kyrie Irving's trade situation was officially set in motion.
Of course, a blockbuster deal like this wasn't going to happen overnight.
In the meantime, Kyrie returned to the Cavaliers as if nothing had happened.
His teammates didn't know the details. They just assumed it was another one of Kyrie's moods.
As this was unfolding, the 2017 All-Star voting had kicked off.
When the first returns came in, Han Sen and Kyrie still led all Eastern Conference backcourt players.
By mid-January, Deron Williams suffered a knee injury that sidelined him for two weeks.
Malone had an interesting decision to make. Instead of promoting rookie Dejounte Murray, he gave the role to sophomore Norman Powell.
It was an unconventional move, but it turned out to be a pleasant surprise for Cavs fans.
In the two weeks that followed, Powell averaged 8.7 points in 18 minutes per game, shooting 40% from three.
Originally projected as a Tony Allen-type player, Powell—despite standing just 6'4" (1.93m)—boasted an impressive 6'11" (2.11m) wingspan and was already making his mark defensively.