Luka Doncic and Kyrie Irving needed some time together for the Dallas Mavericks to excel with this relatively new All-Star duo.
In today’s fast-paced digital age, where people expect quick results, patience can be rewarding.
Initially, there were challenges after Irving joined midseason from Brooklyn. Both players dealt with injuries and needed to adjust to each other’s playing styles. As a result, they missed the playoffs last year. However, in the second year of their partnership, the Mavericks found their rhythm.
Now, they’re headed to the NBA Finals after defeating Minnesota in the Western Conference finals.
Coach Jason Kidd emphasized that their success didn’t happen overnight. Doncic’s impressive 3-point shooting and precise passes, combined with Irving’s speed and smart decision-making, make for a potent combination.
Kidd also highlighted their camaraderie and competitive spirit, even in defensive play.
The Mavericks have also benefited from the athleticism of centers Daniel Gafford and Dereck Lively II, who excel at finishing with dunks.
In the playoffs, Doncic’s accurate skip passes have led to open 3-point shots for teammates like Derrick Jones Jr. and P.J. Washington, contributing to their victory over the Timberwolves.
“We enjoy playing basketball together. That’s all,” said Doncic, who scored 12 points in less than four minutes, had a 20-point first quarter, and finished with 36 points in Game 5, his highest total in these playoffs.
Gafford, who joined from Washington at the trade deadline this season, quickly realized he was joining a special duo.
“Kyrie brings positive energy to the team around the clock,” Gafford said. “Luka is learning to do the same.”
Irving has had an eventful career since being the first pick in the 2011 draft. He won a championship with Cleveland in 2016, then moved to Boston, followed by Brooklyn, and now Dallas. Along the way, he faced criticism, and new environments, and dealt with injuries that affected his availability and performance.
“I’ve grown up and matured,” Irving said, reflecting on his journey. Part of that growth involved learning to handle criticism. “My focus is on my teammates and what we can achieve together,” Irving emphasized.
Doncic and the Mavericks made it to the Western Conference finals two years ago, but their journey was stopped by the Golden State dynasty.
This time, the team looks different, but Doncic remains the same determined player. He’s even more focused on improving and becoming one of the league’s best players.
Despite facing tough defenders like the Wolves and Rudy Gobert, Doncic was unstoppable throughout the series.
“Whether it’s playing faster, defending, or doing the small things, he always steps up,” Kidd said after their 124-103 victory. “His maturity showed in ending the series.”
