Kyrie Irving Discusses Luka Doncic Trade and New Partnership with Anthony Davis…
Kyrie Irving is optimistic about teaming up with Anthony Davis and the future of the Dallas Mavericks. In a conversation with ESPN’s Malika Andrews, he reflected on the blockbuster trade that sent Luka Doncic away, altering the Mavericks’ identity. Despite the dramatic shift, Irving emphasized that his relationship with Doncic goes beyond basketball, maintaining no hard feelings about how things unfolded.
“Our job requires us to navigate public scrutiny, but real relationships are built behind the scenes, and those last beyond basketball,” said Irving. “We spent two years together and got to know each other as men. Hopefully, we can move away from the public criticism and focus on the kindness and compassion we genuinely have for each other every day.”
Since being traded to Dallas midway through the 2022-23 season, Irving quickly bonded with Doncic, forming strong chemistry both on and off the court. Their partnership led the Mavericks to the NBA Finals in the 2023-24 season.
Now, with Anthony Davis—a 10-time All-Star—the Mavericks have a new identity, and Irving is embracing the transition. In their limited time on the court together, Davis and Irving were dominant, showcasing their potential with a combined stat line of 26 points, 16 rebounds, seven assists, and three blocks in just 31 minutes.
“How many minutes did we play together? People saw it—it was just a glimpse of AD’s impact,” said Irving. “With Gaff [Daniel Gafford], the potential of D-Live (Dereck Lively II), and PJ [Washington] emerging as a young star, plus Max Christie, who was a key player for the Lakers, we’re getting healthy at the right time. Regardless of who’s available, we have to handle business.”
At 32, Irving found himself at the center of one of the most shocking trades in NBA history. Despite Doncic being one of the league’s top players at just 25 years old, the Mavericks moved on from their star, ending his partnership with Irving and sending shockwaves through the organization and fanbase.
Although the trade caused significant upheaval, Irving remained focused, separating his on-court loyalty from his personal friendships. With Anthony Davis, he now has a chance to help the Mavericks craft a remarkable comeback story.
Though Davis is currently sidelined with an injury, the team showed flashes of their full potential before his absence. Irving has been stepping up, averaging 24.6 points, 4.8 rebounds, and 4.8 assists on 47.8% shooting this season. Once Davis returns, Irving will be ready to lead the charge, aiming to prove that the trade—while controversial—was a move that could ultimately redefine the Mavericks’ future.
