Boston Celtics: What does a ‘minimally invasive procedure’ mean for Kyrie Irving?

Attempting to breakdown what exactly a ‘minimally invasive procedure’ could mean for Kyrie Irving and the Boston Celtics

Yesterday, we took a look at what Kyrie Irving and the Boston Celtics’ from office might be weighing in their Kyrie Irving decision.

Based on what we know, that he ultimately needs pins removed from his formerly repaired knee-cap, here is what we can infer from the update today.

The Celtics probably learned that pin removal would be a season ender for him. After seeking multiple opinions, they likely heard a doctor suggest a form of a “palliative” treatment. That is not something that will fix the root cause of the problem, but can temporarily alleviate some of the symptoms.

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Among numerous possibilities, for example, could be something like a Arthoscopic Synovectomy. This would be a “minimally invasive” procedure, where a surgeon could partially address some Synovitis, a form of knee inflammation. Depending on how the procedure goes, some athletes are able to return to running and cutting within weeks.

Pros

This is a “middle-ground.” Since addressing the root would end Kyrie, and therefore the C’s season, a procedure like this one might provide Irving sufficient relief to be ready for a playoff run.

If he could be 85 percent of his best self for a second round matchup against maybe the Sixers, it could ignite a real title run for the C’s, without a complicated or risky surgery.

Cons

How many times is too many times to use a knife to cut into a man’s leg? I know the success rates are good, and that Boston would only allow the very very best to perform any procedure on their superstar, but even simple surgeries often come with lengthy compliance forms to sign.

The biggest risk is usually infection. And it’s possible a procedure now, and then the stress of an NBA playoff and then another more complex procedure come June or July would be more of a burden on his knee than simply opting for the pin-removal surgery now.

Verdict

If I were Kyrie Irving, I would probably be so motivated to get back out there and help my team. Afterall, we’re true contenders when I’m healthy and this procedure can probably get me closer to full strength.

But if I’m being long-term greedy, just 15 months away from perhaps a ~$30 million annual contract, and in a situation where I have an actual shot to win multiple Finals MVPs up in Boston with their collection of talent and assets, I’m not risking it.

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But then again, Kyrie Irving is a true competitor and he and his family may feel it’s worth the minimally invasive risks to suit up and play for the trophy this June.