The Brooklyn Nets have been forced to deal with public rumors about James Harden’s future in recent days. Kyrie Irving certainly knows how Harden might feel right now, which made his remarks on the situation all the more intriguing.
Irving was asked about the Harden speculation following Brooklyn’s loss on Sunday, and he blamed “media plants” for the speculation. Irving added that Harden has been “really committed” and that he would simply hold his teammate to his word.
Kyrie Irving on if he thinks James Harden wants to be with the Nets long-term: "How all those media plants start going around with rumors, I really do not concern myself with that. The few conversations that we've had, he's been really committed. We just hold him to his word." pic.twitter.com/kGvUPfR4QX
— Michael Scotto (@MikeAScotto) February 6, 2022
Irving has, of course, been here himself. He famously said he had every intention of re-signing with the Boston Celtics. Less than a year later, he wound up entering free agency and signed with Brooklyn. Celtics fans have not forgotten ever since.
Harden has reportedly made a similar pledge to the Nets, at least in private. That has not stopped a flood of rumors suggesting he may not be happy in Brooklyn. Holding Harden to his word is the best Irving and the Nets can do for now, but there certainly seems to be some reason to be uncomfortable with where Harden is positioned right now.
