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Kyrie Irving's stint with the Brooklyn Nets has been met by tons of criticism. Some say that he brings a negative locker room vibe while some continually lambast him for his failures as a leader. In his first game back after a 26-game absence, Irving made it clear that he's not bothered by the things said about him. He'll continue being himself.
“There’ve been a lot of things said about what I bring to a locker room, the negative side of it. I’m going to continue to be me.. teaching guys & giving them positive encouragement when needed, pulling guys aside, making sure we have team outings & on the same page.”
Kyrie Irving: There’ve been a lot of things said about what I bring to a locker room, the negative side of it. I’m going to continue to be me.. teaching guys & giving them positive encouragement when needed, pulling guys aside, making sure we have team outings & on the same page. pic.twitter.com/YmcFRR3SZW
— Michael Scotto (@MikeAScotto) January 13, 2020
Without Kyrie Irving, the Nets tallied a 13-13 record. And in his return, he led the Nets to an easy 108-86 win over the rebuilding Atlanta Hawks. In 20 minutes of action, the one-time NBA champion had 21 points on 10-of-11 shooting from the field, four rebounds, and three assists.
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The criticisms started during Irving's tenure with the Boston Celtics. It was a team filled with hungry youngsters and a great coach. Yet they underperformed and critics were quick to point the fingers at Irving.
Now, the six-time All-Star is intent on moving on from that horrendous chapter with the Celtics. His first game back after a series of injuries is a tangible sign that Irving is deadset turning things around for the Nets who looked lost without him.
Irving and the Nets' mettle will be tested starting Tuesday. They'll be facing the Utah Jazz, Philadelphia 76ers, Milwaukee Bucks, 76ers again and Los Angeles Lakers — all of which are legitimate title contenders.
