Irving On Reports Of Nets Issues: “I Don’t Have To Be Perfect”

A recent ESPN profile on Nets point guard Kyrie Irving suggested that the point guard’s “mood swings” have already been a cause for internal concern in Brooklyn.

After unceremonious exits from Cleveland and Boston, any chatter about Irving being frustrated adds to the narrative of his mercurial nature. However, Irving’s teammates and coaches were quick to dismiss ESPN’s report, and Irving himself addressed it after a recent Nets loss.

“I don’t have to be perfect for anyone here, nor do I have to be perfect for the public,” Irving said (via ESPN). “I am not here to dispel any perception, I am here to be myself.”

While the Nets’ up-and-down start has raised a lot of questions, Irving’s performance has been stellar. The NBA champion is averaging 32.6 PPG, 7.0 APG and 5.6 RPG for Brooklyn. As the team tries to establish its identity, especially with fellow free agent signee Kevin Durant not expected to play this season, Irving is focused on being himself.

“Who cares what ESPN or anyone says?” Irving said. “I love myself. I love my family. I love my friends. I love playing basketball.

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