Boston Celtics All-Star point guard Kyrie Irving drew mixed reactions in their visit to Madison Square Garden, with some New York Knicks fans booing him while others were cheering — perhaps in hopes of convincing him to reconsider the franchise in his 2019 free-agency plans.

According to Ian Begley of ESPN, a good number of Knicks supporters booed Irving when he was introduced in the game. The reaction is likely in response to Irving's recent announcement that he plans to stay in Boston.

However, there were also some fans that cheered for the 26-year-old, and Begley noted that there are still plenty of Knickerbockers that hope Irving will change his mind and consider the city in free agency.

Irving joined the Celtics via a trade from the Cleveland Cavaliers ahead of the 2017-18 season. However, before the blockbuster deal, the five-time NBA All-Star made a list of his preferred destinations — which included the Knicks.

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Being in Irving's list of preferred destinations sparked the interest of New York's top brass, and the franchise has shown their interest in pursuing the 2012 Rookie of the Year when he hits free agency in the summer of 2019.

Nonetheless, in a fan event earlier this month, Irving told Celtics fans that he wants to commit with the team long-term and plans to re-sign with them.

Irving's recent action may have irked some fans, but booing certainly won't help in persuading him to change his mind. The Knicks need to position themselves not only as a playoff contender but also as a championship-caliber team if they are to have any chance of signing Irving.

A lot of things can happen in this 82-game season, and besides, nothing is set in stone yet until a player puts pen to paper.