The NBA playoff are nearing and Eastern conference leader Miami Heat have been on a slump allowing Bucks and 76ers to catch up.
For the Nets, Kyrie Irving scored 43 points and Durant scored 35 points with 11 rebounds and 8 assists.
With the vaccine mandate now rolled back, the Nets will welcome back their star man with open arms as they look to gather momentum heading into the playoffs.
Smith added that Kyrie would not have gotten away with this if it was the 80s or 90s.
Kevin Durant had 37 points, nine rebounds and eight assists, and the Brooklyn Nets beat the Utah Jazz 114-106.
Kevin Durant discussed the situation with reporters and gave some insight into how Kyrie Irving is feeling about the situation.
Kyrie Irving finished with 20-of-31 field goals, including 8-of-12 from the 3 point line.
Kevin Durant also said that criticism of Kyrie Irving for not getting the vaccine is unwarranted.
Kyrie Irving and Kevin Durant became the first teammates in NBA history to post 50-point performances in consecutive games.
Kyrie Irving, who is still not allowed to play in home games at Barclays Center, was in attendance for the first time all season.