NEW YORK – Without revealing details about Kyrie Irving’s absence from the last five games, Brooklyn Nets general manager Sean Marks said it was disappointing to be without the All-Star guard, but that Irving assured him he was looking forward to returning. .
“No doubt the organization is disappointed that it doesn’t have any of our players – in this particular case, Kyrie, not among us,” Marks told a news conference Thursday afternoon.
“I know he is excited to be back on the field as soon as possible with his teammates,” Marks added.
Taking questions about Irving for the first time during the goalkeeper’s multigame absence, Marks said Irving was tested daily for coronavirus while away from the team. Marks reiterated that Irving would have to address the specifics of his absence directly and would not speak on Irving’s behalf.
Irving missed the last five games in Brooklyn for personal reasons. During that time, videos appeared showing Irving at what appeared to be a family birthday party. The NBA has announced that it is investigating whether the behavior in the videos was a violation of COVID-19 protocols.
The health and safety rules of the league forbid players to go to bars, clubs and lounges or to attend meetings of 15 or more people.
The Nets made a successful deal for Harden on Wednesday, which Marks said was “completely separate” from Irving’s absence. However, with a player option available for Irving and Durant this summer, the addition of Harden gives the team another All-Star.
Marks reiterated that the league’s conclusions will dictate whether Irving should be quarantined and the timing of his return. Marks added that he “hoped” the league would make a decision on 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.