Joe Tsai hints Kyrie Irving not returning on Nets roster for upcoming road matchups: “He still has work to do”
The Brooklyn Nets are still dealing with some issues revolving around Kyrie Irving. After posting a film that contained antisemitic views on his social media, Irving was suspended by the team for, at least, five games.
Many were hopeful that Irving would quickly issue an apology in order to quickly move on while learning from his actions. Because of some of the things that were focused on in that movie, people weren't too happy with what he was promoting.
Although Kyrie Irving did say that he wasn't promoting the movie, it's tough to say if that was the case or not, considering he didn't give any context about the film.
He's been able to meet some people that he needed to meet with recently. Following this, Brooklyn Nets fans now want to know if he's going to be returning to the team anytime soon.
The New York Post's Brian Lewis reported what Joe Tsai said about Kyrie Irving making the road trip with the Nets:
"He still has work to do."
Asked #Nets owner Joe Tsai if Kyrie Irving would be back on this road trip: "He still has work to do." #NBA
Kyrie Irving issued an apology but still has things to do
After not issuing an apology right away, Irving was suspended by the team. Some believe that. if he had given an apology right away, he would be playing with Brooklyn.
Kyrie Irving had the following to say about the situation via his Instagram account.
"To All Jewish families and Communities that are hurt and affected from my post, I am deeply sorry to have caused you pain, and I apologize.
"I initially reacted out of emotion to being unjustly labeled Anti-Semitic, instead of focusing on the healing process of my Jewish Brothers and Sisters that were hurt from the hateful remarks made in the Documentary. I want to clarify any confusion on where I stand fighting against Anti- semticism..."
This is a well-thought-out apology from Kyrie Irving. Although it did take longer than expected, it's good to see that he, at least, apologized at some point. There are still certain actions that he's going to need to follow up on as the Brooklyn Nets have a list of six things that he needs to complete before returning to the team.
According to Shams Charania, they are:
- Apologize and condemn the film he promoted
- Make a $500,000 donation to anti-hate causes
- Complete sensitivity training
- Complete anti-semetism training
- Meet with the ADL and Jewish leaders
- Meet with team owner Joe Tsai to demonstrate an understanding of the situation
While he's been away from the team, the Brooklyn Nets have found plenty of success. They're currently playing some of the best basketball that they've played throughout the past two years, and it's been fun to watch.
Superstar Kevin Durant has continued to show why he's one of the best players in the world. If Kyrie Irving can come back and just play basketball without all of the extra stuff, Brooklyn has a real opportunity to be one of the best teams in the NBA.
Unfortunately, that isn't always the case with Irving. He's shown throughout the past that he can be an issue in the clubhouse. Whether it be the COVID-19 vaccine, not listening to Steve Nash, and now this, it's easy to see why Joe Tsai is becoming frustrated.