Following the Boston Celtics 118-95 loss to the Toronto Raptors, Celtics president and general manager Danny Ainge would appear at Celtics superstar point guard Kyrie Irving’s locker after the six-time All-Star scored just seven points in 28 minutes on 3-10 shooting from the field. Irving, who was more focused on facilitating than scoring entering the game and ended the contest with five assists, was visibly frustrated on the bench and didn’t play in the fourth quarter.
Ainge and Irving are known to have a good if not great relationship, so the executive’s appearance at Irving’s locker shouldn’t cause any concern for Celtics fans. It’s likely that Ainge, a former player, was sending positive messages to the point guard after he played what could be seen as his worst game of the season.
Further, with Irving having been somewhat critical of his team after losses, Ainge could be reminding the veteran to choose his words carefully when addressing the media.
After Irving tallied a double-double with 37 points and 10 assists against the Chicago Bulls on Saturday, it’s tough to say that Irving is even in a bit of a slump. However, prior to the team heading back to Boston, Irving will have to take control of the team and as their leader, his play, attitude and the messages he sends will all have a significant effect on the team’s momentum.
