Strap in, Celtics fans. Boston's pursuit of Anthony Davis just took a turn.
Kyrie Irving addressed the media in New York on Friday and didn't exactly quell speculation he may not re-sign in Boston this summer, telling reporters to "ask (him) July 1" about his free agency plans.
Moments after Irving spoke, The Athletic's Shams Charania reported the Celtics aren't a "preferred destination" for Davis.
Many believe the futures of the New Orleans Pelicans star and Irving are linked. ESPN's Adrian Wojnarowski reported Thursday that Davis' primary hesitation to come to Boston is his camp's uncertainty that Irving is committed there long-term. The Celtics reportedly believe they can convince both Davis and Irving to stick around, but Irving's comments Friday put a damper on that expectation.
Davis' agent, Rich Paul of Klutch Sports, arguably has incentive to push Davis away from the Celtics and toward the Los Angeles Lakers, considering Paul also represents LeBron James. Davis reportedly reportedly prefers to join in free agency following the 2019-20 season, and it seems unlikely he would change his mind without an assurance that Irving is staying in Boston.
UPDATE (12:25 p.m. ET): Charania followed up to report the Lakers are in fact Davis' focus for a potential trade. The New York Knicks also are in the running for Davis, per Charania.
Click here to download the new MyTeams App by NBC Sports! Receive comprehensive coverage of your teams and stream the Celtics easily on your device.