“I think putting Kyrie back re-infuses Harden” - Jalen Rose talks about the impact of Kyrie Irvings' Nets return

The Brooklyn Nets will reunite Kyrie Irving with fellow superstars James Harden and Kevin Durant in the next few days. Pending virus protocols and conditioning, the NBA should see a sight that was very unlikely once the season started.

The mercurial point guard could suit up for the Nets as early as December 27 against the LA Clippers.

Kyrie Irving’s impact upon his return to the Brooklyn Nets has been grabbing the headlines since the organization made a complete U-Turn on their previous stance. Having claimed that Irving cannot miss half the season earlier, they are now open to letting him play in away games.

Former NBA player and ESPN analyst Jalen Rose has offered a new take on how Irving can affect the Nets in an episode of the Jalen & Jacoby Show. Rose said:

“I thought when Kyrie Irving was not playing, the James Harden productivity will be elite. It has not been. He has not even been ballin’ like we know he’s capable. So, I think putting Kyrie back re-infuses Harden as well, because KD has been terrific.”

Jalen Rose added that Harden has looked a pale shadow of his former self. Rose feels that Harden has struggled with every aspect of his game. The Beard has averaged 20.8 points, 7.9 rebounds and 9.6 assists per game this season.

According to the former Indiana Pacer, Irving will affect the Brooklyn Nets not just with his play, but also with his mere presence. The Brooklyn Nets will need the superstar version of Harden to win the NBA championship and Irving’s comeback could have a direct hand in that.

“What James Harden are you gonna get? I think once Kyrie returns, he re-energizes Harden and starts to be a little more engaged. I’ve seen moments where we saw the throwback James Harden of Houston. But, I’ve seen too many moments of him not looking like one of the top 75 players of all time.”

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Will the Brooklyn Nets regain their title favorite status once Kyrie Irving returns?

The Brooklyn Nets will need the best versions of James Harden and Kyrie Irving to help Kevin Durant carry the Brooklyn Nets to the title. [Photo: Sky Sports]

How successful the Brooklyn Nets will be with Kyrie Irving back in the lineup can only be figured out as the season unfolds. The 28-year old superstar can only play in road games, per New York City's mandate. The effects of that on the team will be must-see TV in the next few weeks.

The lack of healthy bodies to get on the court was the Brooklyn Nets’ main reason for eating their words regarding Irving’s situation. Unvaccinated players are more susceptible to the virus, which increases the team’s vulnerability with Irving in town. The Nets organization is at the point of no return, so they will likely see this through.

Regardless, the Brooklyn Nets' status as title favorites is not guaranteed even when Kyrie Irving returns.