Kyrie Irving's return to the Brooklyn Nets will take a little longer than anticipated. The team announced on Saturday that Irving has entered the NBA's health and safety protocols.

As an unvaccinated player, Irving will have to produce five consecutive days of negative tests before he can re-join the team.

The Nets recently reversed course on allowing Irving to join the team and play in games. Due to all of the players they have out with injuries and illnesses, Brooklyn is allowing Irving to participate as a part-time player. Due to New York mandates, Irving is unable to play in home games in Brooklyn for as long as he remains unvaccinated.