The Brooklyn Nets seem to be prepared to play without Kyrie Irving as they look to take Game 5 of the Eastern Conference semifinals against the Milwaukee Bucks.
According to Bleacher Report, “ESPN’s Adrian Wojnarowski reported the Nets do not expect to see Irving back on the floor against the Bucks but are increasingly optimistic about James Harden’s status. Harden went through shootaround Tuesday morning to test his injured hamstring and “hopeful” to be back in the lineup for Game 5, which tips off at 8:30 p.m. ET.”
Injuries have plagued Brooklyn all season and now it is even affecting them in the playoffs. The Nets have been without Harden since seconds into Game 1 and without Irving from the second quarter of Game 2. At first, it seemed the Nets could get by with the duo of Durant and Irving but after back-to-back losses on the road, it was more than clear something had to be done.
James Harden could be the savior the Nets need in this series to lift them to the conference finals. Harden will likely be in the lineup tonight, according to Adrian Wojnarowski of ESPN. However, a minutes restriction may be in place as even if they win Harden certainly does not want to push himself too far and end up sidelined again.
Brooklyn Nets look to take the series lead against the Bucks
The superstar guard and former NBA most valuable player award winner this season averaged 24 points per game, 7 rebounds per game, and 10 assists per game.
He’s also produced solid numbers this season, but can he continue to do so coming off of an injury and missing two straight games? If he can’t what will it mean for Brooklyn? If Harden isn’t his normal self in Game 5 it will be up to Kevin Durant to take charge and try to lead his team to a big win.
After Game 4 Kevin Durant told reports that he did not expect to have so many of his guys out at this point in the season and that his attitude towards Game 5 is to just show up and play the game he has played so well for countless years.
As we await tipoff for Game 5 tonight all eyes are on Durant and likely Harden to see if they can defend home court and keep the Nets championship hopes alive to take a 3-2 series lead in the Eastern Conference semifinals.