NBA News: Mavericks player opens up about Luka Doncic’s absence and Kyrie Irving’s leadership

After a week without Luka Doncic due to injury, Kyrie Irving has been instrumental in holding Dallas Mavericks on track. With an 11-8 record to boot NBA regular season, PJ Washington reflected on Irving’s leadership in the absence of Doncic and highlighted his critical role in the team’s success.

In the Mavericks’ recent win over the New York Knicks, several players stepped up, with Irving and Naji Marshall delivering outstanding performances. Washington, who scored 19 points, also regained his confidence, which contributed significantly to the victory. Additionally, Dereck Lively II, Quentin Grimes and Spencer Dinwiddie each found their rhythm and surpassed their recent performances.

As the team seems to have found its way, Washington was full of praise for Irving’s leadership after the game. “He has told us to be more aggressive and in the second half he really showed what he is about. I think he does a great job leading the team and managing the game“ Washington said.

The forward continued: “At the end of the day, we’ve played great basketball together and tried to come together as a unit.” Irving has certainly stepped up in Doncic’s absence, averaging 25 points per game over the past week.

PJ Washington #25 of the Dallas Mavericks puts up a shot in front of Aaron Wiggins #21 of the Oklahoma City Thunder during the second half at Paycom Center on November 17, 2024 in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma.

Washington on Doncic’s absence

Since Doncic’s injury on Nov. 19, the Mavericks have relied heavily on Irving’s leadership, but Washington emphasized the team’s overall chemistry. “It’s next man,” Washington said. “Everybody gets an opportunity right now, and we play hard, play together and just try to stay connected for all 48 minutes.“

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While many teams would struggle without their star player, head coach Jason Kidd has effectively managed the situation by using both starters and bench players. Marshall has thrived in his expanded role and Lively II is gradually returning to the form he showed earlier this season.

Washington talks about Quentin Grimes’ performance

Players often find extra motivation when facing their former team, and Washington reflected on how this can spark outstanding performances. He singled out Quentin Grimes, notes that some players simply do it when playing against familiar faces.

“I’m excited for him. He had a great game. Obviously, you want everybody to have a great game against the old team. He was very aggressive, had a great game and we need this from every game now“ Washington remarked on Grimes’ accomplishments.

Washington continued: “This is a big confidence booster for him and obviously a big one for everyone else as well.” The confidence and mentality of the Mavericks right now is the answer to their great performances in the last two games of the NBA regular season.