Kendrick Perkins Condemns Kyrie Irving for Causing ‘Unnecessary Drama’ Between NBA Players

Kyrie Irving’s recent comments concerning the issue of the NBA resuming play caused former teammate Kendrick Perkins to offer some biting criticism about how Irving’s changing opinion is causing “unnecessary drama.”

On Friday, Irving expressed his reluctance to resume the season during a conference call among a group of NBA players. Irving cited the safety concerns pertaining to the coronavirus pandemic and also spoke of the recent racial disturbances as a reason why getting back on the court is unwise.

Perkins played with Irving as part of the 2014-15 Cleveland Cavaliers team that reached the NBA Finals. After Irving was traded to the Boston Celtics in 2017, Perkins rejoined the Cavaliers the following April, but barely saw action.

The frustration expressed by Perkins isn’t the first time that he’s been angered by some of Irving’s actions.

Perkins, a former member of the Celtics, attacked what he felt was Irving’s apathy while playing in Boston. Then, in February, Perkins criticized Irving’s being named vice president for the National Basketball Players Association.

This latest issue involving Irving is one in which he likely won’t get what he wants. One thing does seem clear: He and Perkins don’t figure to be getting together anytime soon.