NEW YORK – Without divulging details about Kyrie Irving’s lack of attendance in the last five games, Brooklyn Nets general manager Sean Marks said it was disappointing to be without his All-Star guard, but that Irving was ensure he hopes to return.
“Certainly the organization is disappointed not to have any of our players, in this particular case, Kyrie, not among us,” Marks said at a news conference Thursday.
“I know he’s excited to get back on track with his teammates as soon as possible,” Marks added.
Taking questions about Irving for the first time during the guard’s multi-game absence, Marks said Irving has been doing coronavirus tests daily while he was off the team. Marks reiterated that Irving will have to address the details of his absence directly and will not speak on Irving’s behalf.
Irving has missed the last five Brooklyn games for personal reasons. During this time, videos appeared showing Irving in what appeared to be a family birthday party. The NBA announced that it is investigating whether the behavior of the videos was a violation of its COVID-19 protocols.
League safety and health regulations prohibit players from going to bars, clubs and lounges or attending meetings of 15 or more people.
The Nets did a box office deal for Harden on Wednesday that Marks said was “completely separate” from Irving’s absence. Still, with a player option available for Irving and During this summer, adding Harden gives the team another All-Star.
Marks reiterated that the league’s findings will determine whether Irving needs to be quarantined and the schedule for his return. Marks added that “hopefully” the league will make a decision on Irving soon.
Irving is expected to miss Brooklyn’s next game against the Orlando Magic on Saturday. The Nets have gone 3-2 in their absence.