When the Dallas Mavericks traded for Kyrie Irving from the Brooklyn Nets last season, there were doubts that he and Luka Doncic would work. After all, both players need the ball to be effective, and so many see their partnership to be a failed endeavor right from the start.
Over a year later and after one missed playoffs, though, Irving and Doncic have proven their doubters wrong. The two are hitting it off well, and they have the Mavericks in cusp of playoff and, potentially, title contention.
Kyrie Irving Happy With Dallas Mavericks
Speaking to reporters following their second straight win against the Sacramento Kings on Saturday, Irving opened up about his career so far and his aspirations. The Mavs guard highlighted his desire to be remembered and acknowledged as one of the best to ever do it before adding how delighted he is to paly with another legendary player in Doncic.
“I made a decision that I wanted to be one of the greatest to ever play this game. I know I have other peers of mine that are on that same mission. We’re all competing against each other. I’m fortunate to have one of the best to ever play the game in Luka with me,” Irving shared, via Landon Thomas of Mavs Fan for Life.
Sure enough, it’s great to see Irving focused on basketball again. He was largely criticized in the past few years over his stance on different matters off the court. His reputation also took a hit after his continued struggles with the teams he joined.
In Dallas, however, Irving was able to stay away from all non-basketball related issues…or it wasn’t as emphasized compared in years past. He was able to become Kyrie the hooper again, and it’s paying off dividends for the Mavericks.
In the win over the Kings that give the Mavs some cushion for the sixth seed, Irving finished with 30 points on top of three rebounds and two assists.
Clearly, Irving is happy playing basketball once again.
Luka Doncic Speaks on Dallas Mavericks Partnership With Kyrie Irving
For what it’s worth, it’s not only Kyrie Irving who’s happy to be playing with the Dallas Mavericks. Luka Doncic also shared how much he’s enjoying his partnership with the veteran guard.
When asked about his chemistry with Irving, Doncic noted that it has really come a long way compared to when they started.
“A long, long way… I think we’re both happy and we’re both doing some good things on the floor and we have great teammates so I think this team is special,” Doncic said, via Thomas.
With Luka and Kyrie clicking, there is reason to hope that the Mavericks can continue thriving. The last few games of the season will be difficult, but Irving, Doncic and the rest of Dallas are definitely beyond ready to take on that challenge.
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