Brooklyn Nets star Kyrie Irving is struggling to hide his frustrations over his inability to take part in Nets' home games due to the current COVID-19 regulations in New York. Via ESPN's Nick Friedell, Kevin Durant confirmed that Irving was “frustrated” that he isn't able to suit up at the Barclays Center, but KD had an optimistic outlook on the situation. Durant admitted that while it's unfortunate Irving can't play, the team needs to stay patient because he feels their championship window extends well beyond this season.

Durant knows there's not much he can do to expedite the process of getting Irving eligible to play in New York, despite being unvaccinated. So, his plan is to sit back and let things unfold, knowing that even if things don't necessarily work out for the Nets this year, they are building a dynasty that could yield results for years to come.

“He's frustrated in not being able to play,” Durant said via ESPN. “He figured this stuff would be rolled back by now, we'd be way past this. But it's the situation we're in, we got to deal with it, he's got to deal with it. Trusting that it'll get figured out there soon. I have no clue what may happen, but I'm just trusting that things will work itself out.”

Durant would later say that it is “pretty obvious [Irving] won't get the shot” before declaring that the Nets “love Kyrie.” When asked about the impact not having Irving available for the playoffs would have, Durant was candid, admitting it would be a big loss. He went on to say, however, that the Nets are going to be a top team for a while.

“If you're looking at it as if, like, this is our only chance to ever do something special with this group — and other people looking at it that way — then I can see why,” Durant said. “But to be honest, I signed here for five years to play. You know what I'm saying? Looking at, obviously this year's important, but no matter what happens this year I still want to do it again. And again.”

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Regardless of the outcome of this season, Durant is eager to run it back with the Nets next season, and for multiple after that. He feels confident the core of him, Kyrie, and Ben Simmons can deliver results in Brooklyn, though it may take more time than initially anticipated.