Nic Claxton Says Nets Were 'Caught Off Guard' by Kyrie Irving's Trade Request

Brooklyn Nets center Nic Claxton said he and his teammates were "caught off guard" by point guard Kyrie Irving's trade request Friday.

Michael Scotto of HoopsHype provided the remarks:

Irving's reported trade request went public just six days before the NBA's 3 p.m. ET trade deadline. Shams Charania of The Athletic and Stadium reported why Irving made the decision:

Irving is scheduled to become a free agent this offseason and is reportedly seeking a four-year, $198 million extension, per Brian Lewis of the New York Post.

The 30-year-old, who just made his eighth All-Star Game, is averaging 27.1 points, 5.3 assists and 5.1 rebounds per game.

Irving was listed as out for Saturday's game against the Washington Wizards because of right calf soreness.