As the NBA Finals intensify with the Mavericks pushing for a Game 5 against the Celtics, Kyrie Irving finds himself once again at the center of attention.
The former Celtics guard faced a tumultuous reception at TD Garden, where he struggled in his initial return to Boston.
Ahead of Game 5, Kyrie Irving reflected on his time and experiences, delivering subtle critiques of the Celtics organization. While he acknowledged the passion of the Boston fans and the unique atmosphere they create, he also offered a word of advice to future players considering a stint with the team.
“The community is what makes the Celtics great here, the Boston pandemonium. That’s what makes this space so loud and so special, and they take pride in it. If any player is coming here, getting drafted here, thinking about coming here for free agency, getting traded here, I just think do your homework and make sure you know what you’re getting yourself into. That’s something I could offer,” Irving said.
Irving faced difficulties in his initial games back in Boston during the Finals, snapping a personal losing streak against his former team only in Game 4. Despite struggling with his shooting in Games 1 and 2, he aims to redeem himself in Game 5.
Conversely, Irving excelled in Dallas, making significant contributions with his scoring prowess. Reflecting on his experiences, Irving emphasized the challenge of integrating into the Celtics’ ethos and living up to their lofty expectations.
“You have to show your respect here,” Irving said. “I think that’s what I struggled with initially, was figuring out how I’m going to be a great player here while winning championships and also leading a team and selflessly joining the Celtics’ organization or the cult that they have here. That’s what they expect you to do as a player. They expect you to seamlessly buy into the Celtics’ pride, buy into everything Celtics. And if you don’t, then you’ll be outed.”