The 2021-22 season has been one big waiting game for the Brooklyn Nets and their fans. Most of the suspense revolved around Kyrie Irving, who has only now started playing a limited number of games for the team. However, looking at the changed New York City rules, it still might be time before Irving gets to play at home.
Irving, who has been with the Nets since 2019, remains a key player for the franchise. Together with Kevin Durant (and now Ben Simmons), many believe them to be a championship.
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However, with Irving unable to play home games at the Barclays Center, the team continued to struggle.
Can Kyrie Irving now play home games?
According to New York City mayor Eric Adams, Irving will be unable to play at Barclays Center under the existing set of rules.
Mayor Eric Adams on not lifting the NYC’s private sector mandate.
“Not at this moment. It’s part of our continuation of releasing as the better and better we get with these numbers. Not at this moment.”
When asked directly about Irving, Adams – “Under existing rules he cannot.” pic.twitter.com/y7L0kIyGnP
— Chris Milholen (@ChrisMilholen) March 4, 2022
Now, while the mandatory program is no longer valid from March 7, other restrictions will still be in place. This includes the private sector mandate, which might not be lifted immediately. As Mayor Eric Adams said, “Not at this moment. It?s part of our continuation of releasing as the better and better we get with these numbers. Not at this moment”.?
As a result, Irving will not be able to play on the court at home. However, the 29-year-old will be able to attend and be present at the venue as a spectator.
New York City will lift Key2NYC vaccine mandate on March 7, assuming numbers stay on track, per Mayor Eric Adams.
But: I'm told the private sector mandate still restricts Kyrie Irving from playing in home games, although he could enter Barclays Center as spectator.
— Shams Charania (@ShamsCharania) February 27, 2022
This was previously reported as well, even though there was no confirmation via the mayor.
More from the Mayor about Irving’s situation
A few days before the announcement, the mayor had addressed Irving’s situation. While Adams himself wants Irving to play, it is not as easy as it might seem.
“Listen, I want Kyrie on the court. I would do anything to get that ring,” Adams said. “But there’s so much at stake here”.?
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He added that though they want him to play, there are other issues they need to address. Because, at the end of the day, there are hundreds of others who have to remain vaccinated to do their jobs.
Watch This Story: Michael Jordan’s Number 45, Kyrie Irving’s Number 2, and Other Iconic Moments When Teams Should Have Retired Jerseys
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Without Irving at the home games, the Nets are currently eighth in the Eastern Conference and will play the Boston Celtics next.
When do you think Irving will be allowed to play at the Barclays Center next? Let us know.