After a week without it Luka Doncic due to an injury, Kyrie Irving has played an important role in preserving the Dallas Mavericks on track. With an 11-8 record to start N.B.A During the regular season, PJ Washington reflected on Irving’s leadership in Doncic’s absence, highlighting his crucial 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 putting in standout performances. Washington, who scored 19 points, also regained his confidence and contributed significantly to the victory. Additionally, Dereck Lively II, Quentin Grimes and Spencer Dinwiddie each found their groove and surpassed their recent performances.

With the team seemingly finding its feet, Washington praised Irving’s leadership after the game. “He told us we have to be more aggressive, and in the second half he really showed what he is about. I think he is doing a great job leading the team and managing the game,” Washington said.

The attacker continued: “At the end of the day, we played great basketball together and tried to be a unit.” Irving has certainly taken a step forward in Doncic’s absence, averaging 25 points per game this past week.

PJ Washington #25 of the Dallas Mavericks takes a shot for 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 the next guy,” Washington said. ‘Everyone gets a chance 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 managed the situation effectively, utilizing both starters and bench players. Marshall has done well 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 teams, and Washington reflected on how this can lead to stellar performances. He selected Quentin Grimes, noting that some players simply rise to the occasion when playing against familiar faces.

“I’m excited for him. He played a great match. Obviously you want everyone to have a great game against the old team. He was very aggressive, played a great game and we need that in every game now,” Washington mentioned Grimes’ performances.

Washington continued: “This is a big boost for his self-confidence and of course for everyone else as well.” The Mavericks’ confidence and mentality right now is a response to their stellar performance in the final two games of the NBA regular season.