Kyrie Irving has consistently been a monumental figure in basketball, known for forming dynamic duos with other NBA superstars. From assisting LeBron James in clinching a championship to now teaming up with Luka Doncic on the Dallas Mavericks, Irving’s influence on the court is undeniable.
As Irving begins his playoff run with the Dallas Mavericks, there’s a prevailing question about his synergy with his teammates, particularly with Doncic.
Mavericks coach Jason Kidd praises Irving’s unique ability to stand out even among the best.
“For him to be able to play with stars in this league – you could put him with the four best players in the world and you’re going to leave there talking about him,” Kidd said. “That’s just how his game translates.”
Irving’s move to the Mavericks in February 2023 initially presented challenges, but over time, his partnership with Doncic has flourished, reminiscent of his successful pairing with James that led to a 2016 NBA championship.
“I played with a lot of high-level thinkers, a lot of high-level players and a lot of players that push pressure on themselves to succeed,” Irving said.
Reflecting on his ability to connect with teammates and excel in high-stakes games, Irving emphasized the human element.
“That can sometimes help or hinder certain partnerships. I’ve learned how to be more mature in my approach to people’s emotions,” Irving said. Win, lose or draw, I’m still going to love you. And that matters when you say that to somebody. Go out and do your best and win, lose or draw, we’re brothers.”
His history as a sometimes secondary option does not detract from his achievements, including a critical three-pointer in Game 7 of the 2016 NBA Finals and high scoring averages alongside Kevin Durant and James Harden in Brooklyn.
Now aligned with Doncic, Irving’s performance remains stellar, averaging 26 points over 31 games without missing any, significantly impacting the Mavericks’ playoff trajectory.
Doncic has expressed confidence in their partnership, acknowledging Irving’s prowess.
“It’s Kyrie Irving. Everybody knows how he can play basketball,” Doncic said. “I knew since the beginning.”
Throughout his time as Irving’s teammate, Doncic has praised Irving’s talent while emphasizing how much easier the game comes by playing next to him in the backcourt.
“Like I said, it’s way easier,” Doncic said. “It’s unbelievable the things he does on the court, some movements I have never seen in my life. I think if I would have to play with somebody it would be him for sure, because those movements and shots are incredible.”
Irving also finds similarities in his relationship with Doncic to that with James, based on mutual respect and shared game-winning responsibilities.
“We just had a fluidity of where we were going to be on the court and we knew where we wanted the ball,” Irving remarked.
As the Mavericks gear up for a promising playoff run, Irving’s combined leadership, experience, and his ability to make memorable plays under pressure paint a hopeful picture for the team’s championship aspirations.
“When the going gets tough, you know you have somebody in the foxhole with you that’s ready to shoot all their ammo out. We need people like that that’s not afraid to empty their clip,” Irving concluded.
The playoff debut of the Doncic-Irving tandem will be on Sunday, Apr. 21, when the Mavericks play Game 1 of their first-round playoff series against the LA Clippers.
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