Report: Nets Optimistic Kyrie Irving Can Become Full-Time Player in 2022

There is “real optimism” within the Nets organization that Kyrie Irving can return to the team as a full-time player this season, according to ESPN's Adrian Wojnarowski. 

Irving made his season debut with Brooklyn on Jan. 5, though he is currently playing only in road games due to a New York City order banning arena employees who are unvaccinated. Though as the second half of the 2021–22 season approaches, perhaps the Nets will find a way to get Irving on their floor full-time. 

“As the months evolve between now and the All-Star break into the stretch run of the season and then into the playoffs that enough in the world could change where Kyrie Irving could become a full-time player again,” Wojnarowski said Wednesday. “I think that's real optimism within that organization.”

Irving can play at the Barclays Center this season if he receives the COVID-19 vaccine, a possibility James Harden noted Wednesday. Though as of Thursday, there are no plans for Irving to end his current stance. 

Brooklyn's point guard is averaging 17.7 points per game in three contests this season. He is a seven-time All-Star and a one-time NBA Finals winner.