The Dallas Mavericks have advanced to the Western Conference Finals for the second time in the past three years. Dallas beat the Oklahoma City Thunder 117-116 Saturday, as P.J. Washington made two crucial free throws to help seal the deal.
Derrick Jones Jr. played a key role in helping the Mavs advance. He scored 22 points and shot 66 percent from the 3-point line in Game 6. He is doing everything in his power to prove he is a valuable asset in Dallas. Both sides hope to work on a deal in the summer.
Jaden Hardy also played a role in helping the team advance. The Mavs' guard again saw an increase in minutes. He played in 11 minutes Saturday, pouring in five points and three assists. His enhanced production with the team started Wednesday when he took over for Dante Exum.
However, the biggest production came from Luka Doncic and Kyrie Irving. The Dallas duo combined for 51 points, 13 rebounds, and 12 assists. Their chemistry has helped the team make a deep postseason run.
Kyrie Irving's heartfelt message on Luka Doncic shows why he could be a Mav for life
What a difference a season makes.
Last year, outlets were calling Doncic and Irving a disaster. Sources believed Dallas would be doomed. For example, The Ringer wrote an article last season stating how Irving has a history of burning bridges with teams and could walk away after the season.
Doncic and Irving have proved the doubters wrong though, and established a deep connection in Dallas. Both players spoke highly of each other after their Game 6 victory.
"When he came, nothing but supportive of everything I did. Just helped me mature a lot, realize to see the game in a different way, and obviously on the court, it's amazing to play with a guy like him. "
- Luka Doncic
There is no question both players enjoy playing with one another. Their chemistry on the court is something that has taken fans by storm. Win or lose, they always pick each other up. Irving believes Luka has helped him become a better person and player.
"I think this guy next to me has pushed me to continue to work on my game and continue to develop as a young leader and I think the big word we can agree on is maturity. "
- Kyrie Irving
Irving also elaborated on Luka and the team's ability on welcoming him to the team. He stated that he has enjoyed watching not only Luka play basketball, but also become a father.
"I enjoy watching him develop as a person first, and then the basketball stuff will take care of it. Good human being, a good young man. "
- Kyrie Irving
Irving's press conference demonstrated his contentment with being in Dallas. This is something he has reiterated from the start of the season. Kyrie enjoys being embraced by the city and its fans. He gave an emotional speech in the locker room, doing his best to fight back tears.
His words and emotions demonstrate how Irving truly feels in Dallas. This is a good sign for Mavs fans, as they can only hope Irving is here for the foreseeable future.
Irving, Doncic, and the Mavs will now have a couple of days to rest before the start of the Western Conference Finals.
Stay tuned for all the latest updates on Dallas and their postseason run.
