“Soft-spoken but powerful!” – Mavericks coach Jason Kidd speaks on the leadership of veteran guard Kyrie Irving

Jason Kidd lauds Kyrie Irving’s leadership as he has transformed himself since joining the Dallas Mavericks from the Brooklyn Nets.

“Soft-spoken but powerful!” – Mavericks coach Jason Kidd speaks on the leadership of veteran guard Kyrie Irving

Jason Kidd full of praise for Kyrie Irving

It’s fair to say that Kyrie Irving has faced criticism in the past for his decision-making and leadership. However, Mavericks coach Jason Kidd took a different approach as he recently praised Irving for his role as a team leader. Despite Irving’s controversial history, Kidd believes that Irving has grown into a positive presence for the Mavericks.

Fans will recall when Kyrie Irving received much criticism during his time with the Boston Celtics. He lacked leadership as he struggled to connect with young stars Jayson Tatum and Jaylen Brown. This led to a disappointing two-season stint. His tenure with the Brooklyn Nets was even more tumultuous, from the COVID-19 vaccine to the anti-Semitic controversies. Kidd said the times have changed now.

When you talk about [Kyrie Irving’s leadership], he’s soft-spoken but powerful. Because when you look at what he’s done to this point, he’s a champion, he’s won. Everyone respects his game… wanna pick his brain on how they can all get better. He spends a lot of time with the young group.

Jason Kidd said about Kyrie Irving (via Joey Mistretta)
YouTube video

Fans were shocked when then-majority owner Mark Cuban took a chance when he acquired Irving at the trade deadline in 2023. Thus, the move gave the one-time champion a platform to prove himself in Dallas. Cuban showed faith in Uncle Drew as he was offered the freedom to express himself on and off the court.

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With the addition of Klay Thompson and the formation of a new triple threat, the Mavs and their fans are hoping for a championship run this season. Last year, Kyrie Irving and Luka Doncic came close to winning the championship. Now, with Thompson joining the team, they are hopeful of getting the job done.

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Jason Kidd predicts a better season for Kyrie Irving

Great things have happened to Kyrie Irving since he joined the Dallas Mavericks. One of such is his reputation, which has significantly improved in just a year and a half. The one-time champion had many controversies during his time with the Nets and the Celtics.

He has become an ideal co-star for reigning scoring champion Luka Doncic, leading the team to their first NBA Finals appearance since 2011. As a result, Jason Kidd asserted in an interview with Marc Stein that Irving can elevate his performance even more.

He has really loved being in Dallas. He loves the situation… respects Nico and myself… wants to win and I think you saw that in the numbers he put up… You can see that in training camp. He’s doing all the reps, doesn’t want to sit out. I think you’re going to see an even better Kyrie this season.

Jason Kidd to Marc Stein on DLLS
YouTube video
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As the new season approaches, Irving has yet to feature in any preseason games, as he broke his hand during the offseason. He is expected to be fully healthy by the start of the new season. Kidd now hopes Irving can remain available throughout the season, as he hasn’t played more than 60 games since his time with the Celtics in 2018-19.

Last season, the defeated NBA Finalists were 35-16 when Uncle Drew and Doncic played together. Last season, their combination was lauded as they proved to be one of the most dangerous duos in the league. Only time will tell what will happen this season.