Report: Nets preparing to be without Irving for home games, practices

The Brooklyn Nets are preparing for the likelihood that Kyrie Irving will remain unvaccinated and be unavailable for home games and practices for the foreseeable future, sources told ESPN's Adrian Wojnarowski and Brian Windhorst.

After initial optimism that he would relent on his stance against getting the COVID-19 vaccine, the organization could be forced to decide whether to accommodate Irving's presence at games and practices outside New York City this season or shut him down altogether, sources told ESPN.

Current New York City law requires proof of at least one COVID-19 vaccination dose to enter a number of indoor facilities, including the Nets' home arena. The health restrictions also encompass fitness facilities, such as the team's practice facility.

Irving also wouldn't be able to play road games at Madison Square Garden, home of the crosstown New York Knicks. For their part, the Knicks have achieved a 100% vaccination rate among the team's players.

Under the city's rules, Irving couldn't attend the team's media day in Brooklyn on Sept. 27 - though he did speak to reporters on a video conference call. Irving appeared on the Nets' sideline during the club's preseason-opening road win over the Los Angeles Lakers on Oct. 3, but he didn't play.

The Nets' final road preseason game is slated for Oct. 11. That's the last opportunity for Irving to suit up with his teammates before the regular season begins with a visit to face the reigning champion Milwaukee Bucks on Oct. 19.

While much attention has been devoted to the few NBA players who haven't been vaccinated, 95% of players reportedly had received at least one dose as of Sept. 30.