The assumptions around Kyrie Irving have changed drastically from what it was a few years ago. It initially turned downstream once KAI left Boston after promising to extend his contract. Then came his stint with the Brooklyn Nets. Sharing the floor with Kevin Durant and James Harden, two giants of the game, it was the assembly that crowned them champions. Yet that experiment failed and brought with it a load of controversies that tarnished his name. He was even seen as a disruptive person to have in the locker room.

However, the derogatory tune has subsided over the past two seasons. This can be traced back to the time he joined the Dallas Mavericks. Even after a horrid season where they missed the playoffs, Mark Cuban offered a three-year $126 million deal to Irving. It was the commitment and trust he was looking for all along.

The prize of the organization entrusting its keys to Kyrie Irving paid tenfold. He returned with enthusiasm and a rejuvenated confidence. He and Luka Doncic evolved as teammates and found their way on the court. While he and the Slovenian led Dallas over the Clippers in the first round, Trae Young spared some time to speak highly of the ball-handling genius.

Trae Young calls Kyrie Irving special

There has always been something special about Kyrie Irving. Whether it’s his gorgeous handles or inhuman shot-making, he always leaves basketball fans astounded. Yet his personality has been long labeled as an ‘enigma’ by many analysts. Trae Young doesn’t agree with those feelings.

During a recent episode of his podcast, the Hawks guard admitted how the character of Irving is misconceived in the eyes of the public. Describing him as “special”, Young explained how he is directly responsible for the success of the Dallas Mavericks. “I already know why it works. It’s because he allows Luka to be Luka. He’s older now, he just wants to win. He doesn’t want all the extra stuff that people probably think he wants. I just think he is letting Luka be himself, but also taking over when he needs to. He doesn’t step in Luka’s lane”. 

The Mavericks have transformed from what they were last season when Irving first arrived. They finished the season 5th seed, only a game behind the Clippers. Additionally, they engineered a masterful trade deadline, placing the team in a position to compete. From that moment on, they have ranked 6th in defense. They were 22nd before those additions.

More importantly, Luka Doncic has found Irving’s presence on the court to be incredibly beneficial. They elevate each other both on and off the court. Their mutual respect for one other has enabled them to become one of the most devious tandems in the league and the Mavericks’ contenders for the title.

Their harmonious bond works because of the sacrifices and confidence they each have in the other. Now awaits a matchup against the Oklahoma City Thunder, another team with impeccable chemistry and camaraderie. Do you think Luka and KAI can get past that hump? Let us know your views in the comments below.