Kyrie Irving to miss next two games, yet to take part in contact work

Kenny Atkinson is itching to get Kyrie Irving back on the floor. But he realizes injuries can sometimes be trickier than initially expected.

Kyrie Irving is getting in some work at Nets practice, but he’s still not ready to return to game action. In fact, he will not be ready to play in either of the Nets’ next to games, both of which will be on the road (Atlanta and Charlotte).

Kenny Atkinson told reporters at Tuesday’s practice, Irving will stay behind in Brooklyn to continue with his rehab.

From core work to individual work on the court, Irving has made significant progress since Thanksgiving. But the point guard still has to take part in contact portions of practice before he gets back into games.

It’s not been easy for Kenny Atkinson to deal with at times, but he’s learned a thing or two about slow recoveries throughout his coaching career, per Malika Andrews of ESPN.

I think I used to get frustrated more. I’ve had my moments of frustration because I want him back so bad. But you hear our performance staff and then you talk to Kyrie and then you get your mind to a place where that’s the smartest thing to do.