NBA analyst Stephen A. Smith is popular among NBA fans for his hot takes and unpopular opinions. However, they are not always taken well by fans and also, in some cases, players. For instance, last season, his controversial take on Kyrie Irving worsened the relationship between the two.
Irving refused to take the vaccine owing to personal reasons. While some lauded him for his decision, some fans called him out for his ignorance. Smith certainly did not like Irving’s decision as he criticized the Brooklyn Nets star on multiple occasions.
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Smith said, “I’ve been covering the NBA now for almost 25 years. This is some of the stupidest nonsense I’ve ever seen. Just flat-out stupid.”
More recently, Stephen A. Smith made another interesting comment about the former NBA champion. According to Smith, he and Kyrie might never speak again. Moreover, he also accused Irving of not having commitment towards the game.
Smith said, “Kyrie and I will probably never speak again in life. I assure you, I won’t lose a minute of sleep over it. The issue is, you gotta be committed to showing up to work. The lack of commitment that people suspect he has, that is on him, not us.“
"I've been covering the NBA now for almost 25 years. This is some of the stupidest nonsense I've ever seen. Just flat-out stupid."@stephenasmith reacts to the latest reports on Kyrie Irving. pic.twitter.com/zmAGP2oM3x
— First Take (@FirstTake) October 13, 2021
This is not the first time someone has accused Kyrie Irving of not having the commitment. The former Rookie of the Year is often criticized for not having the required seriousness and dedication to reach his potential.
How good was Kyrie Irving last season?
The Brooklyn Nets star missed most of last season due to his personal reasons. He played 29 games averaging 27.4 points, 5.8 assists, and 4.4 rebounds.
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A few months ago, Kyrie Irving sent the NBA world into a frenzy. According to reports, Irving wanted to leave and the Los Angeles Lakers seemed interested. A LeBron James and Kyrie reunion was looking more than likely.
However, after months of speculation, it seems Kyrie is willing to stay with the Nets for next season alongside Kevin Durant. With the 2022-23 NBA season right around the corner, the Nets will surely be looking to improve their performances.
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What are your expectations for the Brooklyn Nets and Kyrie Irving this season? Let us know in the comments down below,