The Dallas Mavericks and the Cleveland Cavaliers will meet for the second and final time this season. The matchup promises to be an exciting one, as Dallas will be entering the contest hungry for redemption after the Cavs stunned them with a 113-110 win during their first outing on Dec. 27. However, this game also marks Kyrie Irving‘s return to Cleveland, a team he played six seasons for and won his sole championship with after missing their first encounter this season due to a right heel contusion.

In 2016, Cleveland ended its 52-year championship drought by winning its first NBA championship by defeating the Golden State Warriors in seven games. This triumph wouldn’t have been possible had it not been for Irving’s last-second heroics. In Game 7 of the 2016 NBA Finals, with 53 seconds left in the game, he swished a 25-footer to give the Cavs a three-point lead, propelling them to their eventual 93-89 victory. Therefore, before they battle it out on the hardwood, Cleveland expressed gratitude for his contributions with a touching tribute. The Cavs put up a sign that read, “Welcome Back Kyrie!” outside the visitor’s locker room in Rocket Mortgage FieldHouse as a warm gesture to celebrate his return.

This isn’t the first time the Cavs have expressed their gratitude for the guard they selected as the first overall pick in 2011. In 2021, when Irving was playing for the Brooklyn Nets and facing his former team for the second time since his trade, the Cavs welcomed him with a touching video highlighting ‘The Shot’ from Game 7 of the 2016 NBA Finals and the subsequent championship parade. Kyrie graciously acknowledged the tribute, waving to fans and flaunting his ring finger. However, can Kyrie add another ring to his illustrious resume this season?

Can the Dallas Mavericks win a title this year?

While the Dallas Mavericks did not have the best first half this season, the second half is unfolding a different narrative. The only thing that was hampering their success was their lack of front-court depth, as they were often left shorthanded at the big positions. The Mavs went all out on the trade deadline and added P.J. Washington and Daniel Gafford to beef up their front line. The new pieces will also play a significant role in maintaining energy levels when rest is needed or during foul trouble. In addition to the recent additions, some of their vital players have also returned from injuries, further boosting their chances.

They were on a seven-game winning streak before they were gutted by the Indiana Pacers in a 133-111 blowout loss on Sunday afternoon. This will be motivation enough for them to get back to their winning ways with a win against Cleveland to even their season series. However, with their new-found depth, the Mavs could emerge as the dark horse title contender this season. Do you think the Mavericks can win their first title this season since 2011? Let us know in the comments!

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