Kyrie Irving says he'll play in Game 2, Blatt 'hopeful'

Kyrie Irving's left knee continues to plague the All-Star point guard.

Irving confirmed he re-aggravated his knee injury after the Cleveland Cavaliers' Game 1 victory over the Atlanta Hawks on Wednesday.

Cavs coach David Blatt told reporters Thursday there has been no consideration to sit Irving, saying the team is "hopeful" he will play in Game 2 on Friday.

Irving managed to play only 27 minutes in Game 1, posting 10 points on 4-of-10 shooting with three rebounds and six assists. He looked noticeably slowed, but with LeBron James and J.R. Smith supplying the firepower, the Cavaliers were able to get by with him at less than his best.

Knee and foot injuries have plagued the point guard throughout the playoffs. He's managed to appear in every game, but has been less explosive and less quick than usual.

However, Irving seemed to have made some progress between the second and third rounds.

"I feel pretty good going into Wednesday's game," Irving told reporters on Monday. "Being able to feel both my feet underneath me, especially when I'm shooting, feels amazing."