Kyrie Irving could miss extended time with ‘unique’ eye injuries, says Brad Stevens
Oct 30, 2018; Boston, MA, USA; Boston Celtics guard Kyrie Irving (11) looks for an opening during the second half of Boston’s 108-105 win over the Detroit Pistons at TD Garden. Mandatory Credit: Winslow Townson-USA TODAY Sports
By Matt Dolloff, 985TheSportsHub.com
Kyrie Irving will be out for the Boston Celtics on Wednesday night, and there’s a chance his injury extends beyond just one game.
Irving took a hand across his face on Monday night in the Celtics’ 120-111 loss to the San Antonio Spurs, sustaining damage to both eyes. He has a scratched cornea in his left eye that will keep him out of the lineup for Wednesday’s game against the Minnesota Timberwolves.
Head coach Brad Stevens shed more light on Irving’s condition when he spoke with 98.5 The Sports Hub’s Zolak & Bertrand on Wednesday, and admitted that there’s a chance he misses more than just one game.
“Yes, but that will be re-evaulated [Thursday],” said Stevens when asked if Irving could miss extended time. “He got swiped across the face, and it was a unique deal because it got both eyes. The right eye was the initial concern with the corneal abrasion. The left eye had some inflammation.”
Listen to Brad Stevens below (starts at 36:00):
Stevens added that Irving has had to wear sunglasses while watching film with him in his office.
It certainly doesn’t sound good for Kyrie’s chances to return on Friday against the Dallas Mavericks or next Monday against the Brooklyn Nets, either. Wednesday will only be Irving’s third missed game of the season so far.
Terry Rozier has started at point guard in both of Irving’s absences, so look for him to get the nod again vs. Minnesota. Rozier has averaged 16 points, 6.5 rebounds, 4.5 assists, and three triples in his two starts this season.
Matt Dolloff is a digital producer for 985TheSportsHub.com. Any opinions expressed do not necessarily reflect those of 98.5 The Sports Hub, Beasley Media Group, or any subsidiaries. Have a news tip, question, or comment for Matt? Follow him on Twitter @mattdolloff or email him at matthew.dolloff@bbgi.com.
