NEW YORK (AP) – The Brooklyn Nets and the NBA have opened an investigation into the conduct of Kyrie Irving, shown in a video during a family reunion indoors and without wearing a mask.
General manager Sean Marks said Tuesday that the team is reviewing the circumstances with Irving and the league to determine whether the player adhered to health and safety protocols established during the pandemic.
In a statement Marks added that a date has not been set for Irving to return to the team.
Asked if he is confident that Irving will return this season with the Nets, coach Steve Nash replied, “Sure.” But he did not give any details of when this could happen.
“As I said, right now I have to focus on coaching a team and getting the best out of it,” said the Canadian strategist. “So I can’t make any predictions or forecasts about situations that are outside my building.”
The video posted on social media appears to show a family celebration, although it is unclear how many people attended.
Irving missed his fourth straight game Tuesday by what the Nets have described as a personal matter Tuesday night against Denver.
He may have to undergo a quarantine upon his return and could be fined if the NBA determines that he violated the rules imposed by the pandemic.
James Harden of the Houston Rockets was fined $ 50,000 when he attended a private intramural party, violating protocols that prohibit gatherings of 15 or more people indoors, as well as attending a bar, nightclub or similar establishment.
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