Brooklyn Nets All-Star Kyrie Irving has been sidelined due to a shoulder injury, but the former No. 1 overall pick seems to be on the path to recovery after it recently looked like he may not play again this season.
In fact, Irving participated in Thursday's practice session, playing four-on-four and five-on-five sets:
Kyrie Irving was able to practice today. Contact included. Is trying to get a few more practices in before reevaluating. Said he played in four-on-four and five-on-five. No limitations outside of shoulder rehabilitation.
— Alex Schiffer (@Alex__Schiffer) January 9, 2020
Irving will see how things are in another week before trying to figure out the next steps.
This is obviously great news for the Nets, who are currently holding a 16-20 overall record. Last week, it was revealed that Irving was having trouble raising his shoulder. The fact that he was taking contact in practice is certainly a good sign. Still, the Nets will take a cautious approach to his return, as there is no need to rush him back with Kevin Durant out all season.
In his 11 appearances with the Nets this season, Irving has racked up averages of 28.5 points on 44.4 percent shooting from the field (34.1 percent from beyond the arc), 7.2 assists, 5.4 rebounds and 1.1 steals in 33.8 minutes per outing.
Irving joined the Nets this offseason, leaving the Boston Celtics after two seasons. Alongside Durant, who also joined Brooklyn's ranks in the offseason, the Nets are projected to be one of the ore dominant teams in the NBA — once everyone is healthy.
Kyrie Irving says he has been receiving cortisone shots with hopes of avoiding surgery. He recently spoke to the media about his injury and rehabilitation:
Kyrie Irving speaks to the media. He’s missed the last 7+ weeks. https://t.co/6c9el4f9QS
— Anthony Puccio (@APOOCH) January 4, 2020
The Nets have dropped seven straight. Their next shot at claiming a victory comes on Friday night, when they'll serve as hosts to the Miami Heat.
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