NBA chiefs fear Kyrie Irving could retire following Brooklyn Nets suspension

Kyrie Irving is still suspended by the Brooklyn Nets after the basketball star shared a link to an antisemitic film on social media. Irving is not allowed to return to the side until he completes a series of tasks, but some NBA executives think it could be the end of his NBA career.

Irving remains suspended without pay after the Nets disciplined the 30-year-old for sharing sensitive content on Twitter.

This isn't the first time that Irving has been out of the Nets side for off the court controversies, as he missed a considerable amount of playing time due to his vaccination status. Irving remains immensely talented, but he has almost missed as many games than he has played since joining the Nets.

When looking at Irving's ability in isolation, no NBA franchise would pass up the opportunity to sign him. But NBA executives spoke anonymously to The Athletic about Irving's latest saga, with many fearing it could be the end for the basketball star.

The drama surrounding the Nets has been ongoing for some time, with Kevin Durant failing in his trade request after James Harden got out of Brooklyn swiftly. Ben Simmons came in, with the former Philadelphia 76ers star being caught up in all sorts of drama himself before joining the Nets.

But the main issue has been Irving, and now the 30-year-old has been suspended by Nike and the Nets organisation. The Nets are in a difficult situation as it could be seen as controversial bringing him back into the side anytime soon.

And they aren't in a position to trade him either, that is according to many NBA executives. A total of 11 chiefs spoke to The Athletic regarding Irving's situation, and the majority claimed that no NBA organisation would go near him due to his track record off the court.

One executive even claimed that Irving could be forced to retire, with the Nets facing a potential backlash if they allow him to return. And with no other NBA sides likely to risk it, he could be left with no other option.

Irving must reportedly do six steps to even be in the contention for a return, as the Nets have told him to apologise, make a $500,000 donation to anti-hate causes and also complete sensitivity training and antisemitic training. The Nets also want him to meet with ADL, Jewish community leaders in Brooklyn, and finally with owner Joe Tsai to demonstrate his understanding.

There is currently no timeframe on when this could be completed by, and it also depends on how sincerely Irving takes the process. It would be an awful shame to see his talent wasted, but the Nets are left with little to no choice for now.