Kyrie Irving Not Playing? Nets Star Could Miss More Games After Videos Surface

Kyrie Irving last suited up for the Brooklyn Nets on Jan. 5 and he’s expected to miss more games in the coming days. The superstar guard's absence has been attributed to personal reasons, though there are plenty of questions as to why Irving is not playing.

Last week, Nets head coach Steve Nash had told reporters that Irving would miss a Thursday game against the Philadelphia 76ers and was unaware exactly why his starting point guard was not with the team. Irving went on to miss the next two games and the organization did not provide a reason for his absence.

Videos of Irving surfaced on social media. He was seen attending what appeared to be a family party as both Irving’s father and sister celebrated birthdays this week.

The evidence suggests that Irving is violating the NBA’s COVID-19 guidelines, which prohibit players from going to nightclubs, bars and gatherings of more than 15 people. The NBA is expected to review the videos, ESPN reports, which could sideline Irving for several more games.

During the preseason, James Harden was seen at a party without a mask. Upon joining the Houston Rockets, Harden was forced to quarantine for four straight days as he continued to test negative for the coronavirus.

Irving could be subjected to the same quarantine length when he’s ready to rejoin the team.

Irving has been ruled out for Brooklyn’s game Tuesday against the Denver Nuggets. He is expected to also miss Wednesday’s matchup with the New York Knicks and Saturday’s game against the Orlando Magic, at a minimum, according to ESPN.

Some within the league believe Irving will miss games beyond this week, according to SNY’s Ian Begley.

Brooklyn has started the shortened 72-game season with a 5-6 record. The Nets were projected to be among the top contenders to reach the Finals.

Since joining the Nets in 2019, Irving has only played 27 total games.