On “The CrossOver” podcast, Sports Illustrated senior writer Howard Beck lambasted Irving’s view on why he didn’t get a max contract. Beck said:
The Brooklyn Nets stood their ground and refused to give Kyrie Irving a max extension worth roughly $240 million. GM Sean Marks cited Irving’s unreliability and injury history as the biggest reasons why they wouldn’t offer him the contract.
Most basketball analysts have criticized Irving’s statement, pointing out that the vaccine wasn’t the only reason why the Nets wouldn’t offer him the deal.
Kyrie Irving took time off when the US Capitol was attacked and partied with friends and family at the height of the Covid-19 pandemic. His actions cost him several games as it was against league rules. He was also suspended by the Brooklyn Nets for going AWOL.
Over the last three seasons with the Nets, Irving has played only 103 and missed 123 games.
Richard Jefferson, Kyrie Irving’s former teammate, explained why even “Uncle Drew” would not give himself the bag. He said:
Kyrie Irving may never get the max deal that he’s looking for
The Brooklyn Nets featuring Kyrie Irving, Kevin Durant, Ben Simmons, Seth Curry and Joe Harris could end up winning the NBA championship. Even if Irving plays well in a title run, he may never get the bag.
Years of off-court issues aren’t easily pushed under the rug, particularly since he could be playing his best during a contract year.
Chris Broussard, co-host on “The Odd Couple”, explained how a successful year for Irving could not sway teams from giving him the bag. He said:
It may take years for the former Rookie of the Year winner to earn back the equity he has lost. Irving may be offered a max contract by any team, but it will likely include stipulations such as games played. Teams will be protecting themselves should they decide to offer the former champ the bag.
0 votes
