Irving is coming back to the Nets? Nash's latest interview rebunks rumors What's going on?

On December 15, Beijing time, according to the "Open Air Stand Network", there were recent reports that Kyrie Owen had contacted Kevin Durant, which may be a sign that he is returning. But Nets coach Steve Nash denied it in an interview today, saying there was no news or signs that Irving's situation was changing.

Irving was banned from the Nets' home and some away games because he refused to be vaccinated against COVID-19, and has not played so far this season. There have been recent reports that Irving may be preparing for a return, but Nash said the situation for Irving has not changed.

"I haven't heard any new news, and I haven't heard any new news to tell you." Nash said, "I have a connection with him, but it's not a problem, it's just a general life situation." We got in touch last week, but there was no news or any indication that things were changing. So I know he's training, I know he wants to play, but the storyline is still the same as the previous media coverage. ”

In a report yesterday, The Athletic's Shams-Charania noted that people are "optimistic again" that Irving could make a comeback this season. "In recent weeks, Owen and his partner and friend Durant have had more exchanges about his team's form, his performance in the game and his life in general, sources said. Charania writes, "The enthusiasm between the two superstars seems to be growing. Sources said that while it is unclear whether Irving will be vaccinated to meet New York City's epidemic regulations or whether the Nets will lift him, they believe he will be able to play this season. ”

It can be said that in terms of Irving's whole incident, the latest news is obviously vague. If Irving is determined not to get vaccinated, if the Nets are determined not to accept "part-time Irving," if New York City doesn't change its epidemic rules, then why is there optimism? Can Durant convince Nets owner Chongxin Tsai?

But I have to admit that the epidemic in the NBA is getting worse and worse. In the case of the Nets themselves, they now have seven players who have triggered health and safety agreements, including James Harden, Bruce Brown, LaMarcus Aldridge, Paul Millsap, Jevin Carter, James Johnson and DeAndre Bemburi.

Irving, 29, averaged 26.9 points, six assists and 4.8 rebounds last season. Due to injuries and other factors, Irving, Durant and James Harden played few games together last season, and eventually they lost to the later championship Bucks in the second round of the playoffs.

Expectations have been high for the Nets Big Three this season, but because of Irving's condition, people have had to lower their expectations for them. Overall, however, the Nets did not disappoint, and before today's game, they were in the first place in the Eastern Conference with a record of 19 wins and 8 losses, 2 wins ahead of the second Bulls.