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Boston sports fans have a long history of feeling betrayed by their former stars, with notable examples including Wade Boggs, Roger Clemens, Johnny Damon, and Ray Allen.

Kyrie Irving has recently joined this list after his controversial departure from the Celtics. He famously expressed a desire to stay in Boston but then plotted his exit to New York with Kevin Durant. His subsequent actions, including his comments on racism and the infamous stomping on the Celtics logo, have fueled the animosity.

The animosity towards Kyrie Irving is evident in the “F#ck Kyrie” chants, which, while juvenile, reflect the deep-seated feelings many Boston fans hold. However, there is a divide among Celtics fans: some vehemently express their disdain for Irving, while others criticize such behavior and prefer a more respectful approach. This dichotomy will undoubtedly be a topic of interest for the media, who will likely probe players like Jaylen Brown and Jayson Tatum about their feelings towards Irving.

Both Brown and Tatum have maintained a positive relationship with Irving, with Brown particularly viewing him as a mentor. As the NBA Finals approach, they will likely express respect for Irving but emphasize that, on the court, he is just another adversary. This attitude is crucial if they aim to win the championship.

Historical examples of intense rivalries, such as those involving Michael Jordan, Larry Bird, Isiah Thomas, Kobe Bryant, and Kevin Garnett, demonstrate the importance of treating all opponents with the same competitive intensity. Jordan, for instance, was known to use his friendships to his advantage, but he always played to win, regardless of personal relationships.

For Tatum and Brown, the challenge will be to maintain their focus and competitiveness against Irving and the Mavericks. They must approach Irving with the same determination as they would any top player, ensuring that their respect and friendship off the court do not affect their performance.

After the Finals, they can resume their camaraderie, but for now, Irving must be viewed as the enemy if they want to secure the championship.