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USA Today via Reuters

USA Today via Reuters

Kyrie Irving joining the Dallas Mavericks from the Brooklyn Nets took the sports world by storm on the trade deadline over a month ago. While the duo of Luka Doncic and Irving started off well, they certainly haven’t lived up to expectations. Despite having a great start to the season, the Mavs’ playoff berth is now in danger which naturally has the Dallas fanbase frustrated. During the Mavs’ latest game against the Charlotte Hornets, the fans let their disappointment be known, prompting a strong response from Kyrie Irving.

Although the Hornets have one of the worst records this season, the Mavs failed to win the game. Fans resorted to booing during the match which didn’t sit right with Irving. The former NBA champion lashed out at the haters during the post-game press conference.

Kyrie Irving calls out the booing fans

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Kyrie Irving has always been vocal about his opinions on some of the most controversial issues around the world. The same applies when he is addressing the fans. Irving was once fined a hefty amount after he flashed the finger to the Boston Celtics fans while playing for the Nets. Recently, he had a lot to say about the booing fans.

USA Today via Reuters

“You obviously want to play well, but it’s only five people on the court that can play for the Dallas Mavericks. If the fans wanna change places, then hey, be my guest. Got years of work ahead to be great enough to be on this level“, said Irving during the post-game press conference.

Interestingly, the Mavs head coach seemed to side with the fans rather than his player. Jason Kidd approved of the fans booing during the first quarter as the team’s performance was miserable.

However, their second-half outing gave the fans some hope as the Mavs cut down the deficit. Despite their valiant efforts, the Hornets ran away with the game 117-109.

READ MORE: “OK With Each Other Despite Their Past Beef”: LeBron James-Kyrie Irving’s “Match Made in Heaven” Comment by Former Cavs Teammate Has Fans Ecstatic

Can the Mavericks still make the playoffs?

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The Dallas Mavericks are currently 11th in the Western Conference and are out of a playoff place. They are just one point away from the play-in spot which will be heavily contested by teams like the Los Angeles Lakers and the Minnesota Timberwolves.

They have a tricky schedule ahead too, which might jeopardize their chances of making the postseason. Games against the Chicago Bulls, the Miami Heat and the Atlanta Hawks will be crucial to determine their future this season. However, a team led by Luka Doncic and Kyrie Irving can never be underestimated.

WATCH THIS STORY: John Wall-Bradley Beal, LeBron James-Kyrie Irving brotherhood moments

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Do you think the Dallas Mavericks can make the NBA playoffs? Let us know in the comments down below.