Duke guard Kyrie Irving had the protective boot that he has worn on his right foot for the past two months removed Friday and will start another segment of rehabilitation next week.
Coach Mike Krzyzewski of Duke is still not counting on Irving, a freshman, playing again this season after he suffered a right big-toe injury in a game against Butler on Dec. 4.
"We're not expecting him to play," Krzyzewski said.
"That's not in our crosshairs or sight, or whatever. We just want him to get well."
Irving met with Dr. Robert Anderson, an orthopedic surgeon who specializes in foot and ankle injuries, in Charlotte on Friday. Krzyzewski said that Irving likely will be allowed to next participate in some basketball-related activities.
"He won't do them at the pace you normally do, but to see in a week or two, is it still going in the same direction," Krzyzewski said.
"They were really pleased today with what he's done so far."
Anderson is the doctor who recommended that Irving not undergo surgery on his toe, Krzyzewski said. Irving played in only eight games before being injured; he averaged 17.4 points and handed out 41 assists.
"We have a responsibility that whatever his future might hold, that we take care of his future," Krzyzewski said. "That's the commitment that we give every kid that comes into our program."
bcole@wsjournal.com
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