NBA Draft Update: Kyrie Irving says he is fully fit and ready to contribute for any team he goes to
The Cleveland Cavaliers, who won the No. 1 pick in National Basketball Association lottery on Tuesday, will now have the first shot at the dazzling point guard of Duke Blue Devils, Kyrie Irving in the June 23 draft. However, fortunately or unfortunately for the Cavs, LeBron James has been the role model for Irving.
Addressing the media on the first day of NBA combines, Irving said, “He's definitely filling like a big brother role in my life, just giving me advice. When I was going through the three-month stretch when I was hurt he was talking to me every single week telling me to keep the faith. That was really special to me to have someone in the NBA already giving me advice - what things to do and what not to do.”
After seven years of affiliation, the Cavs and James ended up on a bad note. After a loss at the hands of the Boston Celtics in the Eastern Conference Semifinals, James decided to desert the franchise and effectively sent the Cavaliers into a tailspin. Before James’ departure, the Cavaliers were running with the best record in 2010 season, but after his departure, the side fell down to the second worst record of the league, this year.
Analysts all around the league, have already started comparing the 6 ft 2 guard with Miami Heat All-Star James. Irving, who was well-aware of the comparisons said, "The comparisons will come regardless. That's something I'm prepared for. As for right now, I just want to contribute to whatever team I go to.''
The freshman played 11 games for Duke in this years’ March Madness and later declared himself available for the 2011 National Basketball Association Draft. He is stand-out favourite for the number one pick in this year’s draft. Last Thursday Irving was in Chicago for the NBA Combine where he went through some pre-draft medical assessments, but he did not take part in the closed door drills.
Prior to this, Irving missed 26 games in the college basketball competition because of a toe injury. Irving tore some ligaments in his foot and it took him three months to recuperate. However, Irving made it clear that now he is fully healthy and his foot is in fine condition.
Irving, who now uses a protective shank in his shoe on regular basis, said he would not have gone into the draft if he was not 100 percent healthy.
Tags: