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USA Today via Reuters

USA Today via Reuters

The Dallas Mavericks are gaining steam just at the right moment. They have become one of the most in-form teams in the league, winning 9 out of their last 10 games. This incredible form has propelled them to the 5th spot in the Western Conference standings, with only five regular season games remaining. They faced a resurgent Warriors’ side who were on a six-game winning streak. However, they were no match for a Kyrie Irving-led Mavs team.

In a fiercely competitive game, the Mavericks won by a scoreline of 108-106. While players like PJ Washington and Daniel Gafford made significant contributions, it was Kyrie Irving who stole the show. This match was built up as “Kyrie vs Steph,” and this time, recording 26 points, 8 rebounds, and 7 assists in 42 minutes of playing, the former helped the team to victory; reining respect nonetheless for Steph on the other end.

After the game, Irving expressed his admiration for Stephen Curry. He said, “It’s not a one-on-one battle between me and Steph as much as fans make it… I just show respect to the guys like that. He’s put in a ton of work in our league and he has set the bar for a lot of us point guards. We’re still chasing his legacy.”

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The mutual admiration between the two point guards is very evident. However, Andre Iguodala picked Kyrie Irving to take a last-second shot over Steph during an interview with Ryen Russillo. He said, “For a last-second shot, I’m going with Kyrie. You’re talking about fear factor, at any given moment or for like that moment, Kyrie.” He opined so considering how good Kyrie is at not letting the ball go while inducing fear; even against Curry himself. Away from the aspect, Curry has a 10-9 record in the healthy rivalry.

Coming back, with the season at such a crucial juncture, the Mavs have become increasingly more reliant on the individual brilliance of Luka Doncic and Kyrie Irving. And up until now, both of them have delivered. However, Mavs fans would hope that the deadly duo maintain their form in the postseason.

Can Kyrie Irving lead the Mavs to an NBA title?

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In light of their current form and performances, the Dallas Mavericks look like a strong contender for the 2024 NBA title. They endured a mid-season slump, which led many to question their title credentials. However, a strong trade deadline in which they acquired key players like PJ Washington and Daniel Gafford, has turned their fortunes around. Since the instance, the Mavs have won 18 out of their 25 games.

USA Today via Reuters

Acquisitions of PJ Washington and Daniel Gafford have strengthened the team’s frontcourt significantly, providing valuable height and defensive prowess. The difference is quite evident considering the Mavs have the 6th best defense in the league, with a defensive rating of 111.2 since the trade deadline. On the other hand, add Luka and Kyrie’s offensive brilliance to their improved defense, and the Mavs have a recipe for postseason success. Mavericks possess the fifth-best offense since the trade deadline, with an offensive rating of 118.4.

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Luka Doncic has led the way in this aspect, averaging 34 points, 9.8 assists, and 9.1 rebounds per game. Meanwhile, Kyrie Irving has been a capable second option, averaging 25.4 points, 5.2 assists and 4.2 rebounds per game. With the Mavs firing on all cylinders, it’s hard to look past them as one of the teams with a legitimate title shot.

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