By Girald Gaston

PHOTO: SPIN PH

Kyrie Irving's absence from the past week has become a costly one, not just for his team but for his pocket also. 

The Brooklyn Nets guard has been fined $50,000 by the NBA on Friday for violating the health and safety protocols, and will forfeit over $800,000 on his salary for the games he missed.

Irving has been non-existent for the Nets in the last five games for undisclosed personal reasons. He was seen on the video at the party during his absence.

"In the videos—which began being widely shared Monday night—a smiling Irving is dancing with his sister Asia on a confetti-covered floor and clapping as she blows out candles," per ESPN's Adrian Wojnarowski.

The 28-year-old star could be eligible on Saturday after the five-day quarantine if he'll continue to test negative for COVID. However, he will not be able to suit up against the Orlando Magic on that night.
 
"We are aware of a video on social media featuring Kyrie Irving at a family gathering," Nets general manager Sean Marks said in a statement on Tuesday. "We are reviewing the circumstances with both Kyrie and the NBA in order to determine compliance with health and safety protocols."

The league’s protocols prohibit attending indoor social gatherings of 15 or more people or entering bars, lounges, clubs or similar establishments.

Irving became the second player to be fined for the same violation. The first one was James Harden —his newest teammate that was acquired via four-team megadeal.

Irving already played seven games for the Nets this season, averaging 27.1 markers, 6.1 dimes and 5.3 boards per game while shooting 50.4 percent from the field and 42.6 percent clip from beyond-the-arc. The Nets will be waiting for him, to finally complete the formidable offensive trio alongside Harden and Kevin Durant.


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