One of the most critical periods in the NBA schedule has arrived. A fresh pool of players becomes trade-eligible on Wednesday, when the majority of 2021 free-agency signings are open to be moved, and a few days after that, the NBA will hold its version of the MLB’s Winter Meetings — the G League Showcase in Las Vegas from Dec. 19-22.
Conversations are certainly heating up across the NBA, with Philadelphia’s three-time All-Star Ben Simmons the hottest name on the trade market. But an even more important storyline looms over the entire NBA season and the 2022 championship: the status of Brooklyn Nets All-NBA guard Kyrie Irving.
There is renewed optimism around Irving returning to the Nets this season, sources with knowledge of the situation tell The Athletic.
It remains unclear whether Irving’s potential return this season would come via vaccination to meet New York City’s COVID-19 vaccine requirement or by Brooklyn opening the door for him to play road games and practice at home, but sources have indicated a renewed belief that Irving could play this season after all. Nets players and coaches want to have Irving rejoin the team as soon as possible. In recent weeks, Irving and Kevin Durant, his co-star and close friend, have had increased communication about his fit on the team, breaking down the games, and about life in general, sources added. There appears to be an increased level of enthusiasm between the two superstars.
