The polarizing situation concerning Brooklyn Nets star Kyrie Irving won't end soon, especially after the NBA announced on Sunday a new recommendation on COVID-19 protocols.

Irving has yet to see a millisecond of action this season due to his stubborn refusal to get the COVID-19 vaccine. While he can play in cities without strict inoculation mandates, the Nets have decided to shelve him until he becomes a full participant, citing fairness to other players.

But Irving's case could get even more complicated as the NBA has urged players, coaches, and referees to get booster shots (via ESPN).

The league and the National Basketball Players Association, working jointly based on guidance from the league's public health and infectious disease experts, said those who received Johnson & Johnson shots more than two months ago should get a booster. The booster recommendation also was made for those who received the Pfizer and Moderna vaccines at least six months ago.

RECOMMENDED (Article Continues Below)
Atlanta Hawks guard Dejounte Murray appearing at an airport with bags packed and a plane ticket in hand

Fabian Diego Miguel de la Paz ·

Mavericks' Luka Doncic and Mavericks' Kyrie Irving both inside of the American Airlines Center with their eyes popping out looking to the left.

Joey Mistretta ·

Nets head coach Jordi Fernandez

Erik Slater ·

With more than 90 percent of the players reportedly vaccinated already, having them get booster shots won't be much of a problem. In fact, according to ESPN, some teams have already made plans to receive the extra jabs when available. It's safe to assume that the Nets would push for booster shots as well, which might make Irving roll his eyes.

Kyrie Irving, who could suit up in the NBA All-Star Game, has remained silent in the past few weeks about his vaccination status. The Nets, however, have been doing fine without him, extending their winning streak to five games after beating the Toronto Raptors on Sunday.