NBA NYC vaccine mandate changes could have major impact on Kyrie Irving and Nets
Kyrie Irving hasn't been able to play home games for the Brooklyn Nets all season due to his decision to remain unvaccinated against COVID-19. However, an announcement from the New York City mayor's office could change that, just in time for the Nets to make a big push for the playoffs.
During a media conference on Wednesday, NYC mayor Eric Adams said that he hopes to phase out the city's vaccine mandates in the coming weeks, following the lead of cities like Boston and Washington, DC.
Quite significant from @NYCMayor discussing for the first time his desire to (eventually) remove vaccine mandates.
Says much more information to come in the next few days pic.twitter.com/h7FRXjZnS0— The Glue Guys (@BKGlueGuys) February 23, 2022
Currently in NYC, you must show proof that you've received at least two doses of the Pfizer and Moderna vaccines or one dose of the Johnson & Johnson vaccine to enter indoor spaces like restaurants, gyms, movie theaters, and sports venues. That rule has prevented Irving from playing home games all season.
Initially, the Nets didn't allow the unvaccinated Irving to play any games at all. They didn't want him playing just part time, but reversed that decision in mid December. After missing the first 35 games of the season, Irving made his season debut in January.
Adams made it clear that he will be meeting with his public health advisors constantly, and will follow the science to make informed decisions about phasing out the COVID-19 regulations. Though there aren't any firm dates in play yet, Adams left no doubt that he wants to get the process going as soon as possible.
Nets' fortunes could be changing
The Nets are currently in 8th place in the Eastern Conference with a 28-31 record. That makes them eligible for a play-in spot, but their aspirations are clearly higher than that. When the season began, with their Big Three of Irving, Kevin Durant, and James Harden installed, they were dreaming of first place. But between Irving's part-time status due to his refusal to get vaccinated, Durant's knee injury, and Harden's growing unhappiness, the Nets have been on a downward trajectory.
But things could be changing. Harden's been shipped out to the Philadelphia 76ers in exchange for Ben Simmons. And according to Nets Daily, GM Sean Marks recently said in a meeting with season ticket holders that Simmons and Durant could be back in a week or so. If Irving can also rejoin the team, the Nets could be on the upswing.
