The Boston Celtics aren't firing on all cylinders as many had expected heading into the 2018-19 season.
With 18 games remaining, the Celtics are sitting in fifth place in the Eastern Conference with a 38-26 record, while Kyrie Irving's impending free agency looms large over the organization. And as rumors continue to swirl regarding Irving's departure, possibly to join the New York Knicks, the 26-year old point guard has reportedly become "disengaged and detached."
The Ringer's Kevin O'Connor writes:
"Sources around the team told me that Irving's persona has changed, too: He's become disengaged and detached from those around the team. There is talk that Irving’s friendships on the team start and end with Tatum, with whom he shares an agent. Two sources peg Irving's change in demeanor to early February, around the time he was asked about the possibility of joining the New York Knicks next season."
O'Connor also notes that Irving has "grown increasingly frustrated with the intense media coverage of his future decision, and the state of the team."
Irving's frustration with the constant media coverage was on full display this past Sunday as he entered the arena prior to Boston's loss to the Houston Rockets.