Kyrie Irving pays tribute to the Celtics | NBA

Faced with Boston for a berth in the conference semifinals. Kyrie Irving has found herself in the spotlight. Performing on the ground, like these last two outings closed by 39 and 25 points, but victim of a bottle throw at TD Garden, the 2016 champion passed a real psychological test that he took up.

He ends this series with 25 points, 6 rebounds, 3 assists with an average of 48% shooting, 39% distance and 92% throwing.

Asked about his opponents, Kyrie Irving recalled the good relationship he has with members of the Massachusetts franchise. “Jayson Tatum has come a long way since joining the league. I’m so proud of him just like I’m proud of Smart and all those guys who gave it their all tonight. « 

What respect for Boston

Even though his behavior but also his statements angered some Boston fans, Kyrie Irving was laudatory towards the franchise which had given him a chance to emerge from the shadow of LeBron James. “I am grateful for the opportunity Boston gave me and the support I received when I left. « 

Party to the Nets in 2019 when he had promised at the start of the season to extend, Kyrie Irving had left Boston on very bad terms with his former supporters.

“Obviously it wasn’t the easiest of transitions, but I had a lot of personal stuff to deal with during my time at the Celtics and people don’t know I’m happy now that it’s all behind me, a year and a half after. Now we can move on and focus on the end of the season. « 

No doubt relieved to have finally closed this Boston parenthesis, Kyrie Irving played the card of appeasement even if he is not completely ready to forgive the public.

“We don’t want to disrespect anyone. Like I said, I have nothing but respect for the players and the coaches in Boston. As for the external environment, we let it flow… ”