DALLAS — Kyrie Irving has played in 28 consecutive games since returning from a sprained right thumb on Feb. 5, when the Dallas Mavericks began a three-game East Coast road trip in Philadelphia. During that span, he averaged 25.6 points, 5.0 assists, and 4.8 rebounds while shooting 51.5 percent from the floor, 41.1 percent from deep, and 93.2 percent from free throws. The Mavs went 21 wins and 7 losses during this period.
Irving's most recent performance of the season featured him leading the Mavs to a 108-106 victory over the Golden State Warriors on the second night of a back-to-back, despite Luka Doncic being sidelined with an injury. Irving had 26 points, eight rebounds, and seven assists that night.
April 5, 2024. Dallas, Texas, USA.Dallas Mavericks guard Kyrie Irving (11) aims for golden goal
Kevin Jairaj-USA TODAY Sports
Irving recently played in back-to-back games for the first time since the 2015-16 season. He stated that his current physical condition is in his prime. Playing in these games benefited him in many ways, and he was able to push through the pain to make it happen.
“That's my job. I'm 32 years old, but I'm not going to say 'I feel old' being here. I feel like I'm in my prime and in a good place. ” Irving said. “I feel like the competition over the last month or two has helped me get better mentally, physically, emotionally and spiritually and push through a lot of pain and discomfort.”
Irving was asked to explain what has helped him play in more consecutive games recently compared to maybe five years ago. He explained that the difference in his approach so far has been to be more cautious, but he is very confident in the effort he has put in physically to maintain his endurance.
“Five years ago, I think I would have made the mistake of taking a break, and I think that probably answers your question,” Irving said. “If you feel something in your body, it's more of a mistake to rest. But I think at this point in the season, I just have a lot more confidence in the work I've put in and in myself than I probably did five years ago. I feel like I’m in a good place mentally and physically, if that answers your question, you know?”
The Mavs have missed 22 games with Irving this season, more than half of those games (12) were due to a teammate landing on top of Irving, who was on the floor after attempting a finish in December. Ta. Then, in late January, he missed six games with a thumb sprain. Going through such a period was probably frustrating, but he felt it was only a matter of time before he was able to play in more games in a row while leading his team to success. Dallas is 36-19 when Irving is in the lineup, but 32-16 when Doncic is also in the lineup.
“Mentally, it's like one of those words in my mind. It's just time,” Irving said. “Just being able to get healthy and put a lot of games together and show what I've always known to be true can have a positive impact on winning.
“When I'm on the floor, I give my heart [and] “Our team has a better chance to win,” Irving continued. “And I'm not saying I can do everything, but I think I can go out there and contribute offensively and defensively and do the right thing.” I just feel like I'm in a good position.'' I just do the best I can and continue to give positive encouragement to my teammates.'' ”
“As a competitor you want that, but it's easier to do when you're on the floor,” Irving concluded. “I'm just grateful. Thank God for keeping me healthy and allowing me to have a good run before getting ready for the playoffs.”
The Mavs have praised Irving's impact on the team, with coach Jason Kidd calling the superstar guard “substandard.” His offensive versatility, leadership and defensive effort on and off the ball all combine to be necessary ingredients.
“He's one of our leaders on and off the floor. He's been unbelievable,” Kidd said of Irving. “He delivered in the clutch. He plays off the ball, he plays on the ball, he competes on the defensive end. As a leader, that's what you need to do. Lead by example. It’s about showing. And that’s what he’s doing for us right now.”
Irving's impact throughout the 2023-24 season helped the Mavs finish fifth in the Western Conference standings despite health issues and roster changes. He peaked at the right time, averaging 25.4 points, 5.2 assists and 4.9 rebounds, goals he set for himself before the season and made clear during training camp.
