In the video above, Chris Broussard and Rob Parker discuss Kyrie Irving, who will soon finally debut for the Brooklyn Nets for the 2021-22 NBA season after being unable to join the team due to his COVID-19 vaccination status and the mandates held by the city of New York. About 1-2 weeks ago, it was announced that Kyrie Irving would be allowed to return on a part-time schedule. This, unfortunately, was delayed when he was quickly placed under health and safety protocols right after the announcement.
Now, as the season proceeds through the wild spread of COVID-19 and Kyrie Irving is now cleared to return to action, Chris Broussard and Rob Parker dive into what's at stake with Irving's return. The Brooklyn Nets have a clearer path that opens them up for championship contention, but Parker also makes the point that Irving's legacy is now on the line in his return.
Rob Parker: "I think he's playing for his basketball career and legacy from the standpoint of he's on full display now. As talented as he is, the humble part comes because everybody thinks you're that guy, and you matter, and then you realize that life goes on without you. And the league goes on. The league doesn't pause. It's not like the Brooklyn Nets went 0-22 and Kyrie could say, 'See! You need me! It wasn't like that.' They have the best record in the East. And then he's not on the top 75 list. When his contract comes up, can owners look at him honestly and go, 'Can we count on this guy?' It's the pandemic THIS time. Next time he doesn't want to dribble the balls that are made in China. I don't know what the next thing is. I think your basketball mortality flashes before you and you go 'Wait a minute; everybody else is playing. Nobody else is at home. YOU'RE the only one at home."