Kyrie Irving's ankle injury is not considered season-ending. Wendell Cruz-USA TODAY Sports

The Brooklyn Nets have already ruled Kyrie Irving out for Game 7 of the Eastern Conference semifinals, but there are some hints about his availability for the team’s next series should they advance.

Coach Steve Nash said Friday that Irving’s sprained ankle is not considered season-ending, and the Nets expect to have him back at some point if they move on. Nash could not say, however, how soon that would be.

Based on Nash’s quote, it seems plausible that Irving could be back at some point in the Eastern Conference Finals. That obviously depends on the Nets surviving Game 7 against Milwaukee without him.

Knowing how Irving looked after suffering the injury, it wouldn’t have necessarily been surprising for this to be a longer-term issue. The good news is that’s clearly not the case.

More must-reads:

TODAY'S BEST
Mavericks lose key player for 'significant period of time'
Blue Jays manager John Schneider blasts team after latest loss
Lakers make another big change after firing Darvin Ham
Draymond Green doubles down on Knicks' inability to win a championship
Phillies lose two-time All-Star to injured list
NBA announces punishment for Lakers star over actions in elimination game
Heat may be cooling on Jimmy Butler's long-term future
NFL insider defends former Steelers QB Kenny Pickett from 'bust' label
Nuggets may miss this player as postseason run continues
Report: Russell Westbrook situation 'far more challenging' than previously thought
Kansas City Chiefs release former second-round pick at WR
NHL announces finalists for 2024 Lady Byng Trophy
Giannis Antetokounmpo refutes claim by HC Doc Rivers
Former Pro Bowler attempting comeback with NFC East team after two seasons out of action
Vikings' J.J. McCarthy wanted one team to draft him
Watch: Prospect stunned, confused after being removed mid-game due to trade
Rangers lose two-time All-Star starting pitcher to injury
Three offseason moves the Giants must make
Mavericks' Luka Doncic gets payback, knocks out Clippers
Lakers fire HC Darvin Ham after disappointing season