Fansided

Every NBA team’s biggest question mark for the 2021-22 season

By Rucker Haringey

Photo by Christian Petersen/Getty Images
Photo by Christian Petersen/Getty Images /
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Kyrie Irving, Brooklyn Nets
LOS ANGELES, CA – OCTOBER 03: Kyrie Irving #11 of the Brooklyn Nets cheers from the bench during a pre season game against the Los Angeles Lakers at Staples Center on October 3, 2021 in Los Angeles, California. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and/or using this Photograph, user is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Kevork Djansezian/Getty Images) /

Brooklyn Nets: Will Kyrie Irving get on board?

On paper, the Nets have arguably the most talented starting five in the NBA. The triumvirate of Kevin Durant, James Harden, and Kyrie Irving is enough to torch even the stingiest defense.

The problem with that blueprint starts with injury concerns about all three players. The bigger question this season is whether or not Irving’s stance on the COVID-19 vaccine will derail Brooklyn’s season before it ever begins.

If Irving never elects to get vaccinated he’s going to miss a mountain of playing and practice time in the state of New York. It’s hard to envision him really remaining a crucial part of Brooklyn’s short-term plans if that problem never gets solved.

The Nets can still do serious damage with the duo of Durant and Harden, but the sheer amount of salary cap space swallowed up by their big three makes depth a serious issue in Brooklyn. Losing Irving for big chunks of the season would turn the Nets into title favorites into fringe playoff contenders.