Adam Silver speaks out in support of Kyrie Irving on ESPN

SACRAMENTO, CALIFORNIA – FEBRUARY 02: Kyrie Irving #11 of the Brooklyn Nets looks in the the stands prior to the start of the second half against the Sacramento Kings at Golden 1 Center on February 02, 2022 in Sacramento, California, Adam Silver speaks out in support of Kyrie Irving on ESPN, ESPN NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Thearon W. Henderson/Getty Images) /

One of the biggest storylines early on in the season was the drama involving Kyrie Irving and the Brooklyn Nets. The team stated they would not take on Irving as a part-time player.

While they have since changed their stance on that, allowing Irving to return to the court, he is still unable to participate in any home games due to New York City’s vaccine mandate.

In recent weeks, the Nets have faltered, at one point losing 11 games in a row. And now, Adam Silver has made news for an appearance he made on ESPN’s Get Up. (H/t Bleacher Report)

Adam Silver speaks out in support of Kyrie Irving on ESPN

On the show, Silver stated that the law in New York is unfair, specifically when it comes to Irving. He also mentioned that they should reconsider the rule.

"“This law in New York, the oddity of it to me is that it only applies to home players. I think if ultimately that rule is about protecting people who are in the arena, it just doesn’t quite make sense to me that an away player who is unvaccinated can play in Barclays but the home player can’t. To me, that’s a reason they should take a look at that ordinance.”"

The bit about unvaccinated away players being allowed to participate is particularly confusing, according to Silver. He also mentioned that the city as a whole has seemed a bit freer as of late.

Silver stated that the NBA wanted to enforce mandatory vaccination, but the NBA Players Association disagrees. Regardless, he also stated that about 98 percent of all players are vaccinated.

As far as his own personal beliefs, Silver mentioned that he thinks everyone should get the vaccine, as well as the new booster shot that has become available.

That being said, Silver also said that he could see a change in requirements coming in New York City, especially with Eric Adams being newly appointed as the Mayor of New York City.

Kyrie Irving has played in 14 games for the Nets this season, posting averages of 24.1 points, 4.8 rebounds, and 5.4 assists while shooting 45.2 percent from the field and 35.8 percent from three-point range.

It’s unclear whether or not the rule will change anytime soon, but the fact that Silver made a point to comment on the matter is a big step in favor of Irving.

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