"We're just getting acclimated": Kyrie Irving shies away from giving Mavericks props, emphasizes developing chemistry
Kyrie Irving and the Dallas Mavericks notched their second consecutive victory after beating the Minnesota Timberwolves 120-114 on Tuesday. In a game that seemed like the Timberwolves would win due to Anthony Edwards' 24-point first-quarter performance, the Mavericks found a way to come out on top.
Irving, Tuesday's player of the game, talked about his performance and what he thinks about his team this season so far during the postgame interview. Kyrie acknowledged that he and the Mavericks were just getting started.
"We're just getting acclimated," Irving said. "We're getting to a great rhythm, getting into great shape. We just want to value possessions. Right now, we're just developing that chemistry. Once we get that, then I'll have a better answer for you."
Kyrie Irving knew that it was going to be an intense matchup heading into the game. The Mavericks and Timberwolves last faced off in the 2024 Western Conference Finals wherein Dallas came out on top to move on to the NBA Finals.
"We know this team very well, they know us very well," Irving said. "We knew it was going to be a personal one with emotions high. So it's great that we came in here and got the dub."
Kyrie Irving heated up against the Wolves
The Dallas Mavericks and Minnesota Timberwolves faced off on Tuesday in a Western Conference Finals rematch. The last time the two teams went against each other, it was the Mavs who had the last laugh as they eliminated Minnesota. It seems that they still have the Timberwolves' number as they secured a 120-114 victory.
It was all Kyrie Irving for the Mavericks as most of his shots went in. Irving had the hot hand shooting an efficient 75% from three-point land and 56.5% overall. While the Wolves did their best to keep up with the Mavericks' guard, there was no stopping Irving's scoring assault.
Irving put up a season-high 35 points, five assists, and four rebounds. Assisting him was Luka Doncic, who struggled to get his rhythm going throughout the game. Nevertheless, Doncic still nearly secured a triple-double with 24 points, nine assists, and eight rebounds.
PJ Washington (17 points) and Daniel Gafford (14 points) stepped up to the occasion and efficiently provided solid numbers on offense.
The Mavericks will take on the Houston Rockets next in what will be a Texas rivalry matchup.