The Brooklyn Nets have informed Kyrie Irving he will not play or practice with the team until he is eligible to play under local COVID-19 restrictions. Irving has so far refused to get the COVID-19 vaccination and under New York City law he would not be allowed to attend large indoor events. The offseason news about Irving has dominated NBA channels and many were wondering the Nets were going to have him play only away games this season. Irving will be eligible to return to the Nets this season if he gets vaccinated.
The Nets say Kyrie Irving will not play or practice with the team until he can be a full participant pic.twitter.com/bjBpg4wLli
— Bleacher Report (@BleacherReport) October 12, 2021
Nets GM Sean Marks statement on Brooklyn’s decision to sit Kyrie Irving until he fulfills NYC vaccination rules: pic.twitter.com/4LBIQXt7al
— Shams Charania (@ShamsCharania) October 12, 2021
Kyrie Irving has been the most outspoken anti-vaccine player in the NBA and it seems doubtful he will change course. The Brooklyn point guard could decide not to play it more valuable to him at this time. Kevin Durant and James Harden were reportedly involved in the decision, but their opinion on the matter is currently unknown. The Brooklyn Nets were considered a heavy favorite to win the NBA Championship coming into the season.
“Without Kyrie, I feel the Nets have more than enough to win a championship. I think adding Kyrie makes them a heavy favorite.” Richard Jefferson
— Adam Zagoria (@AdamZagoria) October 12, 2021
Similar pressure caused Andrew Wiggins to change his mind, so the same could happen with Kyrie Irving. The Brooklyn point guard could lose a majority or all of his salary this season if he does not play. We here at Def Pen Sports will keep you updated as the story progresses.
