The 29-year-old point guard missed his side's opening 35 games as his franchise indicated just before the championship started in October that they were unwilling to call on him until he was eligible for all fixtures.
Driven by a series of injuries and positive Covid-19 cases, the Nets finally changed their minds in mid-December, allowing Irving to resume training with his teammates, a phase prior to a return to the courts, only for the meetings outside.
Because, for the time being, he is still prohibited from participating in those at home, in accordance with the health regulations in force in New York State.
The Nets have counted as many as 10 players subject to NBA health and safety protocols in recent weeks and three of their matches have been postponed.
Irving assured during a press briefing last week that he "understood" and "respected" the initial decision of his leaders.
"I had to take a step back and think and try not to get too emotionally attached to what they had decided to do. I really had to consider their point of view, which is that of the club and my teammates."
"I understood their argument, which said if you are not fully vaccinated then you cannot be a full (team member)," added the seven-time All-Star, who had to submit to the anti-Covid protocol on December 18, before leaving it ten days later.
Based on the sessions since his return to the team, Nets coach Steve Nash has ruled that Irving "looks good" for a player who has not played this season.
Brooklyn, which remains on two setbacks, gave up first place in the Eastern Conference to Chicago.
© 2022 AFP