NEW YORK – Without giving details of Kyrie Irving’s absence from the past five games, Brooklyn Nets general manager Sean Marks said it was disappointing to be without their All-Star guard, but Irving assured him that he’s looking forward to be back.
“Without a doubt, the organization is disappointed that there are none of our players – in this particular case Kyrie, not among us,” Marks said at a press conference Thursday afternoon.
“I know he is excited to get back on the field with his teammates as soon as possible,” added Marks.
Marks first answered questions about Irving in the absence of multiple games and said Irving is being tested for coronavirus daily while away from the team. Marks reiterated that Irving will have to discuss the details of his absence directly and that he will not speak on Irving’s behalf.
Irving has missed Brooklyn’s past five games for personal reasons. During that time, videos surfaced showing Irving at what looked like a family party. The NBA said it was investigating whether the behavior in the videos violated its COVID-19 protocols.
The league’s health and safety regulations prohibit players from going to bars, clubs and lounges or attending meetings of 15 or more people.
The Nets made a blockbuster transaction for Harden on Wednesday that Marks said was “completely separate” from Irving’s absence. Still, with a player option available to Irving and Durant this summer, adding Harden gives the team another All-Star.
Marks reiterated that the competition’s findings will determine whether Irving should be quarantined and the timeline for his return. Marks added that “hopefully” the league will make a decision about Irving soon.
Irving is expected to miss Brooklyn’s next game against the Orlando Magic on Saturday. The Nets went 3-2 in his absence.