Kyrie Irving was the brightest among the stars during the 2014 All-Star Game on Sunday when he led the Eastern Conference team to a come-from-behind 163-155 win over the Western Conference team in New Orleans.
Irving racked up 31 points and 14 assists, scoring 15 points in the final period to turn the game around and help the East All-Stars snap their three-game losing skid to the West All-Stars in the annual festivity.
Irving was named as the 2014 All-Star Game MVP, and sources said that his dazzling performance on Sunday might be a factor when Miami Heat superstar LeBron James makes his decision about his future after the current season.
James, who could opt out of the final year of his contract with the Heat after the current season, has yet to decide about his offseason plans, but there is a growing speculation that he would consider returning to Cleveland.
James made it no secret that winning a title is still his first priority. The Cavaliers are nowhere near to winning a title this season, but acquiring James will them a serious title contender.
James and Irving gave fans a glimpse on what their future together might be during the All-Star Game when they teamed up for several rim-rattling dunks and highlight-material layups. After the game, James had nothing but praises to the 21-year-old point guard.
"Kyrie's special," James said on Irving. "It's just that simple. Very special basketball player, very smart basketball player -- his ability to shoot the ball, get into the lane, make shots around the rim. He has the total package. I've always known that, always witnessed that ever since he was in high school. I'm extremely happy for him."
James left Cleveland in 2010, earning the ire of Cavs fans and team owner Dan Gilbert.
Wounds have healed over the past few years with Cavs fans trying to convince James to make a homecoming.
Team owner Gilbert has also softened his stance about a possible reunion with James.
Sources said that Gilbert believes that the Cavaliers have a good shot of getting James back via free agency - either this summer or in 2015 especially if James fail to win his third title with the Heat this season.
