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NEW YORK – Without disclosing details of Kyrie Irving’s non-attendance in the last five games, Brooklyn Nets general manager Sean Marks said it was disappointing to be left without their All-Star guard but that ‘Irving had assured him that he couldn’t wait to be back.
“Without a doubt, the organization is disappointed that they don’t have any of our players – in this particular case Kyrie, not with us,” Marks said at a press conference Thursday afternoon.
“I know he is delighted to be back on the pitch with his teammates as soon as possible,” added Marks.
Responding to questions about Irving for the first time during the guard’s several-game absence, Marks said Irving was tested for coronavirus daily while away from the team. Marks reiterated that Irving will have to respond directly to the details of his absence and that he will not speak for Irving.
Irving has missed Brooklyn’s last five games for personal reasons. Meanwhile, videos have surfaced showing Irving at what appeared to be a family birthday party. The NBA has announced that it is investigating whether the behavior of the videos violated its COVID-19 protocols.
League health and safety rules prohibit players from going to bars, clubs and lounges or attending gatherings of 15 or more people.
The Nets made a successful trade for Harden on Wednesday that Marks said he was “completely separated” from Irving’s absence. Still, 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 findings will dictate whether Irving should be quarantined and the timing of his return. Marks added that “I hope” 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 went 3-2 in his absence.
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