There is renewed optimism around Irving returning to the Nets this season, sources with knowledge of the situation tell
The Athletic.
It remains unclear whether Irving’s potential return this season would come via vaccination to meet New York City’s COVID-19 vaccine requirement or by Brooklyn opening the door for him to play road games and practice at home, but sources have indicated a renewed belief that Irving could play this season after all. Nets players and coaches want to have Irving rejoin the team as soon as possible. In recent weeks, Irving and
Kevin Durant, his co-star and close friend, have had increased communication about his fit on the team, breaking down the games, and about life in general, sources added. There appears to be an increased level of enthusiasm between the two superstars.
There had been serious doubts about Irving’s playing status this season, barring New York City mayor-elect Eric Adams changing the COVID-19 vaccine mandates. Multiple City Hall officials, both current and incoming, have told
The Athletic there are no plans to lift the requirement, which currently requires residents to have at least one vaccine shot to enter indoor gyms such as Barclays Center.
“We just focus on our group and getting better every single day and if we get the gift of (Irving’s) return, we’ll be ecstatic but we can’t count on it,” Nets coach Steve Nash said last week. “We can’t wait for him. We have to get to work and get better.”