For most of his NBA career, Kyrie Irving has been known for being a big-shot-maker.
He’s the kind of player who’s often risen up to the occasion, especially when doubted or called out.
That’s why it’s been so surprising to see him struggle so mightily vs. the Boston Celtics, and particularly at the TD Garden.
Given his nature and track record, most people expected Irving to play well in the NBA Finals vs. his former team.
Then, he called out the fans after Game 1 for not being loud enough, but he couldn’t follow it with a good performance in Game 2 either.
That’s why former NBA star Tim Hardaway Sr. claims that he’s trying too hard right now.
Talking on The Carton Show, Hardaway claimed that Irving was just too worried about the Celtics’ aura and the fans and whatnot.
"Kyrie is trying too hard when he's out there playing."
— @HardawaySr pic.twitter.com/GESjEXssF8
— The Carton Show (@TheCartonShow) June 17, 2024
Instead, he should continue to play his game and take whatever the defense gives him as opposed to forcing shots or trying to make a statement on every single possession.
As mentally strong as he’s always been, it’s more than evident that the Celtics crowd and his own agenda have gotten to his head.
Everybody wanted to see him put on a show and get back at his former team, especially with all the talking and antics he’s done throughout the course of the years.
But at the end of the day, it’s not about a single player, and Irving must do whatever it takes to help his team take care of business.
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