Last season felt like a dream for the Mavericks, as Kyrie Irving and Luka Doncic dazzled on the court, giving fans the ultimate Batman and Robin show. But now, with the franchise’s bold decision, that dynamic duo is torn apart. While the franchise doesn’t seem too concerned about the change, Klay Thompson wasted no time in pointing out the gap it created. But something needs to be done to fill the void. So, Klay stepped up, taking it upon himself to deliver a crucial message to the Mavs’ locker room, which could help them make a difference.

The Mavs’ game plan used to revolve around Luka and Kyrie, with both stars playing key roles in creating plays. The chemistry they built over time was almost perfect, and changing that overnight isn’t easy. So, Klay believes significant adjustments need to be made in their playstyle. The team will have to lean on each other even more as they adapt to the change and find a new rhythm.

During the pregame press conference on Saturday, Klay said, “Losing Luka, we gotta adjust our style of play a lot. So we gotta lean on each other more.” But there’s also something to look forward to. ” I’m just excited for what’s ahead because, we’re gonna get AD in the lineup here soon, and we know how great he is,” he added.

There’s no question about Anthony Davis’ greatness, but Luka Doncic was the heart and soul of Dallas. It’s not just his ability to rack up numbers and dominate defenses, but the connection he had with the fans and his teammates, especially Kyrie, who has hinted about his future in the league before taking on the Rockets.

Kyrie Irving opens up about his future following Doncic’s exit

Kyrie mentioned in the presser that his drive to win a championship is what pushes him to work harder. At this point in his career, the veteran’s goals are clear and he’s made them known to those around him. He also highlighted their ups and downs this season but that didn’t shift his focus. But he’s well aware, “I have less years playing in this league than I do more. I’m not the young kid anymore with the potential through the roof.”

Kyrie mentioned that the contributions of Mavs GM Nico Harrison and Jason Kidd behind the scenes definitely make his job easier, along with the support of the capable squad. But there’s one thing he can’t escape– his age. Kyrie said, “I know I’m 32 still young and, but in this NBA, they like to age us and stuff like that. They like to play out the old guys as they say.” 

But he doesn’t fit into the common narrative. “Once you get over year 10 or 11, you practically like I don’t know… if people don’t think you can get better in your thirties or something like that, but I feel like I’m at that place where, I don’t have to necessarily use my athleticism all that much, but I can adjust to the the speed and athleticism in the game now,” Kyrie added.

Though Kyrie hasn’t been at his absolute best this season, he’s still averaged 24.4 points, 4.8 assists, and 4.7 rebounds, leading the team mostly without Doncic. This is the role he’ll have to continue playing for the rest of the season.

The way things are going in Dallas, a championship might not be on the cards, but Davis’ arrival could shift the momentum. Do you think Kyrie Irving will be able to fulfil his championship dream with the Mavs? Let us know in the comments below!