Former World Champions Klay Thompson and Kyrie Irving are set to return to action this week. In one case, to the chagrin of NBA analysts, in the other, a homecoming.
After 35 games, the news surrounding point guard Kyrie Irving will end in him donning a Brooklyn Nets jersey potentially tomorrow night. The 29-year old was recently reactivated by the Nets brass following a host of COVID-related illnesses hit the team. The star was initially deactivated due to his vaccination status, as the state of New York made a mandate for all participants to be vaccinated at indoor events.
Irving was heavily criticized by the press for his decision to stay unvaccinated, only speaking to the public in an Instagram Live late-last year. Despite it, the Nets have cleared him to play road games exclusively, as the mandate still stands.
Irving is set to return Wednesday versus the Pacers.
As for Thompson, it’s a whole different ball game.
The 31-year old has missed the last two seasons with ruptured Achilles and ACL injuries, respectively. Thompson has long hinted at his return, even as recent as last night, he was initially penciled in for a Christmas Day return. Despite that, the elite play of the Warriors has kept them above water, as, led by Stephen Curry, are 29-7, atop the Western Conference.
The Nets, awaiting Irving’s return, are currently 23-12, losing their last 3 games, including their 118-104 loss to the Grizzlies.
NBA All-Stars return to action
