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USA Today via Reuters

USA Today via Reuters

The Los Angeles Lakers are hosting the Dallas Mavericks, eager to build on their recent victory against the Oklahoma City Thunder, one of the top teams in the Western Conference. Meanwhile, the Mavericks look to maintain their streak of exceptional games by their on-ball wizard, Kyrie Irving. Moreover, they also welcomed Luka Doncic back into the lineup, who came after missing a game due to an ankle injury.

However, the game’s opening moments witnessed a dramatic event involving Kyrie and his former teammate LeBron James. Luckily, the moment maintained their star duo’s on-court presence, it made Dallas fans anxious about one of their star player for a brief time.

Kyrie Irving collides with LeBron James, leaves court

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After a loose ball skirmish with Anthony Davis, Dereck Lively passed the ball to Irving near the half-court. LeBron, attempting to make a steal, closely trailed Kyrie. As Kyrie received the ball, attempting to pass while airborne, a collision unfolded between the two, causing Kyrie to hit the ground in a shaken state.

Although Kyrie initially tested his ability to continue, he swiftly headed towards the locker room within minutes. However, to the relief of Mavericks fans, he soon made a return and was spotted on the bench, poised to reenter the game. Moreover, Irving had minimal downtime, departing with 7:36 left in the first quarter only to return at 3:08.

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Irving posted a sluggish start to the game, attempting just one shot. However, given his recent performances, he will soon be back to his superstar ways. Kyrie has been monumental for the Mavs to keep them afloat as Luka was sidelined due to his ankle. Over the last five games, Kyrie is averaging 37.4 points per game.

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Dallas is eyeing Andrew Wiggins for a trade

As the Dallas Mavericks assert their dominance this season, securely holding a spot in the top 5 of the fiercely competitive Western Conference, they are not letting the approaching mid-season mark deter them from enhancing their roster. With the trade deadline looming, the Mavericks have set their sights on Andrew Wiggins, aiming to capitalize on the dip in his trade value.

Wiggins, whose performance has seen a significant decline, is averaging nearly 12 points and 4.2 rebounds in 36 games this season. Notably, his three-point shooting has plummeted below 30%, well on track to become a career-low. It is also a considerable drop from last year’s impressive 39.6%.

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Despite Wiggins being in the first year of a hefty four-year, $109 million extension with the Golden State Warriors, the Mavericks see an opportunity to leverage his potential contributions. However, given his underwhelming season, it poses a potential obstacle in exploring various trade possibilities as the deadline approaches.