Kyrie Irving stepped up in a big way to lead the Dallas Mavericks to a gritty 123-120 road win over the Denver Nuggets in the Emirates NBA Cup, proving the team can compete even without Luka Dončić. Irving finished with a solid stat line—19 points, six rebounds, six assists, a steal, and a block—but his true impact went beyond the numbers. His presence drew heavy defensive attention, freeing up teammates like P.J. Washington to capitalize on key opportunities late in the game.
Despite Nikola Jokić’s monster performance of 33 points, 17 rebounds, and 10 assists, the Mavericks’ defense clamped down on the rest of Denver’s roster, holding all other Nuggets to under 18 points. It was a testament to Dallas’ collective effort, especially without their superstar, Dončić, and other contributors like Dante Exum.
Kyrie’s Leadership Shines
After the game, Kyrie dedicated the victory to Dončić and sidelined teammates, saying:
“We miss you hermano. Hopefully, at home, you’re happy, man. This is definitely one for him and one for all of our guys that are unable to be here and healthy.”
Irving’s ability to absorb defensive pressure and create opportunities for others underscores his role as a leader in Dončić’s absence.
What’s Next for the Mavericks?
The Mavs improved to 2-1 in the NBA Cup and will face a challenging stretch while Luka recovers from his wrist injury, expected to be re-evaluated in a week. Dallas has three tough matchups ahead:
- Miami Heat on Sunday
- Atlanta Hawks on Monday
- New York Knicks on Wednesday
With Irving now running the offense, his adaptability will be tested as he shifts from his usual shooting guard role to primary playmaker. The Mavericks will lean heavily on his leadership and scoring prowess to maintain momentum and stay competitive in the Western Conference.
This win over the defending champions is a significant morale booster, showcasing the Mavericks’ resilience and depth even without their MVP candidate.
