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Anthony Edwards admits Mavericks’ Luka Doncic, Kyrie Irving reality before Game 3
Image credit: ClutchPoints

DALLAS — The Dallas Mavericks will enter Game 3 with a 2-0 series lead in the Western Conference Finals. Minnesota Timberwolves star Anthony Edwards understands that Luka Doncic and Kyrie Irving are more than capable of leading Dallas to victory in the final minutes of games. On Sunday morning after the Timberwolves’ shoot-around, he discussed the importance of limiting mistakes against the Mavs.

“They got closers, man, with Luka and Kyrie,” Edwards said. “So you can’t make mistakes down the stretch… They got two guys they can throw the ball too and just say ‘go get a bucket.’ But we made a lot of mistakes. I turned it over last game. We had a couple turnovers late in the game last game. And in the first game we just gave it away.”

The Mavs feature an all-around impressive team. Dereck Lively II and Daniel Gafford have positively impacted the series without question. Derrick Jones Jr. and PJ Washington can make big plays on both ends of the floor.

A number of teams around the league have one closer. Dallas has two superstars who can close games out, which places extra pressure on opponents. Doncic and Irving are both able to step up during the clutch moments and lead their team to a win.

Luka  Doncic, Kyrie Irving taking care of business vs. Timberwolves

Dallas Mavericks guard Kyrie Irving (11) and guard Luka Doncic (77) celebrate after defeating the Minnesota Timberwolves in game two of the western conference finals for the 2024 NBA playoffs at Target Center. Brad Rempel-USA TODAY Sports

Doncic has averaged 32.5 points, 10.5 assists, and 8.0 rebounds per game to begin the series. Luka also connected on an eventual game-winning shot in Game 2.

Doncic has continued to play through injury trouble. His toughness and leadership have been crucial for this Mavericks team. He’s a player who seems to play even better when the lights are brightest.

The same can be said for Kyrie Irving.

Irving had a big Game 1. His numbers did not jump off the page in Game 2. Still, his impact was immense. Overall, the veteran guard is averaging 25 points, 5.0 assists, and 4.5 rebounds per outing in the series.

Kyrie’s leadership has been a talking point all season long. His experience has given Dallas a superstar who they can rely upon.

Irving and Doncic have developed a strong relationship as well. The duo seem to enjoy playing alongside one another. When Kyrie was traded to Dallas to join Luka, their future was questioned at times. It is safe to say they have silenced the critics, though.

The Mavericks superstars want to do more than simply silence their doubters, though. Their primary goal is to win a championship. As of this story’s writing, the Mavs are just six victories away from accomplishing that feat.

Game 3 of the Western Conference Finals is scheduled for 8 PM EST on Sunday night in Dallas as the Mavericks look to take a commanding 3-0 series lead.

This article first appeared on ClutchPoints and was syndicated with permission.

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