Returning to Boston for Game 5 tonight, Kyrie Irving knows that in the event of defeat, he would see his former franchise add a new line to its long record and its long history. This same story that “Uncle Drew” neglected during his time in the franchise between 2017 and 2019.
“When I think about it, being traded here was not in my options. You know, it wasn't my first choice,” admits the leader. “So when the opportunity to be traded presented itself to me, instead of looking at the past and appreciating the history of the Celtics, I just came in with an open mind and was like, 'Very well, I'll just go with the flow', but I think that was the wrong approach. You know, I was young. »
Five years after his departure, Kyrie Irving recognizes his mistake, and confirms that he could undoubtedly have been more involved when he was with the Celtics and taken an interest in the legends of the franchise.
“But now that I'm a little older, looking back, I definitely would have taken the time to get to know the people in the community, to talk to some of the champions that came before me, to reach out to them, instead of to expect them to be there for me and give me advice because they've been through it here,” recognizes Kyrie Irving. “They’ve been showing it for years. They are one of the teams with the most titles in the sport, and so you have to show them respect here. »
Kyrie Irving's advice? ” Do your homework “
A youthful mistake for Kyrie Irving, who therefore did not arrive at the Celtics with the right mentality. Leaving Cleveland to free himself from LeBron James and build his own history, the leader arrived in a franchise that carries the heavy weight of its past. A weight heavier than all the individuals who arrive there.
“What I struggled with at first was figuring out how to be a great player here, while winning championships but also leading a team and selflessly joining the Celtics organization or the cult that they have here, » concedes the Mavericks player. “That's what they expect you to do as a player, they expect you to totally embrace Celtics pride, everything about the Celtics, and if you don't, then you will be left aside and I am one of them. »
Looking to step out of the shadow of LeBron James, Kyrie Irving ironically found himself in the shadow of the Celtics. And so that’s the advice he gives to future C’s players.
“ If a player comes here, gets drafted here, thinks about signing here in free agency or gets traded here, just do his homework and make sure he knows What is he getting into? he concludes.
