Kyrie Irving: Brooklyn Nets will not have an unvaccinated star until further notice

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Kyrie Irving will no longer be considered by the Brooklyn Nets until further notice

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Sarah Stier / Getty Images

The corona protocols in New York City are clear: Those who are not vaccinated against the corona virus are not allowed to play indoor sports.

NBA superstar Kyrie Irving is no exception.

Because of this, the Australian will no longer be considered by the Brooklyn Nets for training and games, as the team announced.

"Given the evolving situation and after careful consideration, we have decided that Kyrie Irving will not play or train with the team," General Manager Sean Marks said in a statement.

“Kyrie is personal and we respect his individual right to make that decision.

Currently, however, that decision limits his ability to be a full member of the team, ”said Marks.

“We're not going to allow anyone on our team to be part-time.

In order to achieve our goals this season, all members of our organization have to pull together. «

Nets want the title

The decision will apply until Irving is allowed to train fully again.

Previously, there had been speculation that Irving could only play away games in other cities due to the regulation in New York City.

This could be a problem for the Nets.

The team is considered a favorite for the title due to its density of top players.

In addition to Irving, Kevin Durant and James Harden are also in the roster of the Nets, the trio was brought in to bring the title to Brooklyn.

Last season, Brooklyn failed in the quarterfinals at the eventual champion, the Milwaukee Bucks.

Before the coming season, the Nets will be the top favorites, and at the season opener they will meet the Bucks on October 20th.

It is unlikely that Irving will be there - although his team is keeping the door open.

The decision not to consider Irving for the time being did not indicate a trade on another team, Marks said.

The Nets would "welcome Kyrie back with open arms" - "under different circumstances."

Irving is known for his, cautiously, unconventional thinking.

Years ago he claimed that the earth was "flat".

He later apologized for it.

hba / dpa / Reuters