After missing nearly all of the Nets’ home games due to his refusal to be immunized against the coronavirus, Marks stated that this summer’s contract extension discussions must include an appraisal of Irving’s commitment to play until injured.
Marks stated, “I believe there will be conversations on those points.” “This is a team sport, so everyone must be on the court.” During a disastrous season that saw an NBA title favorite finish eighth in the Eastern Conference and get swept by the Boston Celtics in the first round, the Nets seldom had this.
They began the season without Irving because they decided he would not be a reserve player. They ultimately invited him back in December to play solely on the road — a decision Marks did not second-guess — with Irving unable to perform in New York due to the city’s vaccination requirement for public performances.
In late March, an exemption to the rule made him eligible for all games, but by that time, the Nets had to win a Play-In game in order to qualify for the postseason. Irving is available for a contract extension this summer and has stated that he intends to remain in Brooklyn with Kevin Durant, who received a contract deal last summer. Marks stated that they have not yet had contract talks with Irving, but that the Nets are aware of what they seek.
