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[Saba Sports News] The Dallas Mavericks took a commanding 3-0 series lead in the Western Conference Finals on Saturday night, and Luka Doncic shared an inspiring message from Kyrie Irving during the win.
Doncic scored 33 points, grabbed 7 rebounds, and made 5 steals as the Mavericks defeated the Minnesota Timberwolves 116-107 at American Airlines Center in Dallas, Texas. In his postgame press conference, Doncic was asked about Irving’s impact on the team’s playoff run.
“When we were winning by nine, that last possession I told him, ‘I’m tired as s—.’ He told me, ‘That’s the way it’s supposed to be,’” Doncic recalled. “He brought that calmness to our team, to me, the maturity … it’s been unbelievable to have him on our team.”
Irving also scored 33 points, adding 4 assists and 3 rebounds on 12-of-20 shooting. Both players were outstanding, which may explain some of the criticism directed at Timberwolves coach Chris Finch for his strategy.
The Mavericks seem poised for an NBA Finals matchup with the Boston Celtics, who have a 3-0 series lead over the Indiana Pacers in the Eastern Conference Finals. Irving’s experience will continue to be valuable for Dallas, especially if they face one of his former teams.