Kyrie Irving progressing towards Nets return as part-time player

All-NBA star Kyrie Irving has started process to return to the Brooklyn Nets, sources tell The Athletic. Irving is ramping up, has begun team COVID-19 testing, and his season debut date is still to be determined.

Source: Shams Charania/The Athletic

ANALYSIS: Adrian Wojnarowski also reported, "With the unfolding circumstances of Brooklyn’s season – including injuries, COVID-19 losses and an inordinate minutes load on their superstar players – the Nets are bringing back All-Star guard Kyrie Irving as a part-time player for games outside of New York."

It is unclear if this means Irving is any closer to being vaccinated. He has not played in a game yet this season. The Nets have been ravaged by COVID-related absences, and that has affected players including James Harden.