Dereck Lively Credits ‘Swiss Army Knife’ Luka Doncic and Kyrie Irving for Transitioning Into ‘Defensive Force’ for the Mavericks

The Dallas Mavericks are already showing their dominance in the NBA. By acquiring the 8x All-Star Kyrie Irving, the Mavericks have become stronger than ever. Kyrie and their star player, Luka Doncic, have formed a partnership that is taking their team to new heights. Due to the two players’ combined efforts, the Mavs boast a current record of 8 wins and 2 losses.

Despite early doubts about the chemistry of two ball-dominant superstars, the Mavericks are not only winning but performing with style and coherence. Even one of their teammates, Dereck Lively, spoke about his experience with them in an interview with the Tidal League.

The Mavs rookie talks about his team’s star duo and his game transition

Dereck Lively recently featured in an interview with the Tidal League, where he talked about starting with stars like Luka and Kyrie and whether it adds any sort of pressure on him. He also talked about how much they make the game easier for him and how has his game been different from his college game.

“I mean they definitely made the game easier because you know everybody’s more focused on like the Swiss army knife. You know the weapon on the floor and you know they’re almost impossible to stop either of them. So just knowing that I could play off of them, it just makes my game easier,” he said.

He added, “And transitioning from like college I was a defensive force, so that’s something the Mavericks were lacking. So as soon as they grabbed me and I’ve been working out, I know exactly what they need me for.”

The 19-year-old rookie has already demonstrated his potential to the Mavericks. Lively’s remarkable stature and length add a fresh dimension to the club, standing at 7-foot-1 with a wingspan of 7-foot-7.

Read More: ?Tale of Two Halves?: Kyrie Irving Keeps It Simple After Dropping Season High in Bucks Heartbreak

Dereck Lively is a valuable rim protector, rebounder, and finisher, averaging 12.5 points, 6.0 rebounds, and 1.0 blocks per game. His league-leading 91.7 percent shooting from the field demonstrates his exceptional touch around the basket. And with him at the defense and Doncic Irving at the attack, the Mavericks are looking invincible.

How is the Doncic-Irving duo performing season?

Coach Jason Kidd has instilled a fresh sense of purpose in the club, with Doncic and Irving leading the way. The team’s offensive prowess has skyrocketed, with decisive victories over difficult opponents such as the New Orleans Pelicans and the Los Angeles Clippers. The Mavericks’ shift toward a faster, more explosive approach to the game is paying off, and they’ve become one of the most fascinating teams to watch. Luka Doncic, already regarded as one of the NBA’s hottest players, is thriving in this collaboration. Doncic’s efforts have been nothing short of remarkable, as he leads the league in scoring with 32.6 points per game.

Despite a shooting struggle at the start of the season, Kyrie Irving has rediscovered his groove and is now an essential element of the Mavericks’ attacking force. His expertise and playmaking have proven to be vital assets, providing a mature presence to Doncic’s young energy. However, this duo’s success is more than just winning games. They have changed their team’s identity. The Mavericks are on the verge of a great season, and fans can’t help but be thrilled to see what the future holds for this amazing partnership.

Watch this Story: Novak Djokovic?s Revenge Game vs Jannik Sinner Grasps the Support of Luka Doncic