Michael Porter Jr. comments on Kyrie Irving's health, ACL recovery

August 25, 2026 - 22:54

Brooklyn Nets forward Michael Porter Jr. recently shared his thoughts on teammate Kyrie Irving's status, and the news is promising for Nets fans. Speaking to reporters after a team workout, Porter said Irving looks like his old self on the court, showing no visible signs of the ACL injury that cut his 2025-26 season short.

Irving tore his ACL in January during a game against the Miami Heat, forcing him to miss the remainder of the season and the playoffs. The injury raised questions about his long-term mobility, especially given his age and the reliance on quick cuts and changes of direction in his game. But Porter, who has been playing pickup games with Irving over the past few weeks, said the veteran guard has been moving well.

"Kyrie looks great, honestly," Porter said. "He's been getting up and down, finishing at the rim, pulling up from deep. You wouldn't know he had surgery if you just watched him play. He's put in the work, and it shows."

Porter also noted that Irving has been vocal in practice, helping younger players with their footwork and shot selection. That leadership role, Porter added, is a sign that Irving is mentally ready to return, not just physically.

The Nets are expected to ease Irving back into game action during training camp, with a possible target of opening night in October. While the team has not set an official timeline, Porter's comments suggest Irving could be ready sooner rather than later.

"Obviously, we want to be careful with him," Porter said. "But from what I've seen, he's ready to compete. And when Kyrie is ready to compete, that's a scary thing for the rest of the league."