Kyrie Irving corrected the situation. While the Mavs leader did not have a game with more than 22 points in the conference semi-final against OKC, he scored 30 in his team's victory (108-105) during Game 1 of the final Western Conference. Including 24 in the first quarter. Perhaps he was particularly motivated by his duel against Anthony Edwards.
At the end of Game 7 against the Nuggets, the Wolves All-Star guard warned that he wanted to challenge his elder brother: ” We will have fun ! My duel will be against Kyrie, and we're going to have fun. We'll see what I'm capable of against him. »
Message received 5/5 for Kyrie Irving who showed that he could raise his voice again by finishing the game with 30 points on 12/23 shots, 5 rebounds and 4 assists. Individually and collectively, the elder dominated the kid.
“I used it as motivation. When I was sitting at home and saw it, I thought it was just a sign of respect,” explains Kyrie Irving. “I was at home with my family, watching Game 7, and then Ant' said, 'I want Kyrie.' » But it's also his mentality, to be afraid of nothing and that's why we love Ant'. I also knew what type of match it was going to be. The first match, but also for the rest of the series. “
The new generation wants power
Beyond the little phrase, it is above all this duel between the new and the old generation to reign over the conference which undoubtedly motivates Irving. The 2016 NBA champion returns to the conference finals at age 32, and it's a first since he left Cleveland. In the previous round, it was Shai Gilgeous-Alexander who stood in his way, and Dallas overcame the obstacle with Irving transformed into a “glue guy”.
This time it's Anthony Edwards and he's also a superstar in the making. With the Wolves, he has just eliminated the defending champion (Denver) and the regular season MVP (Nikola Jokic). Edwards exudes confidence and joy of playing. The Wolves fullback stood out with a strong defense on Jamal Murray and he loves to challenge the best.
“I love it, there’s nothing better” having fun Kyrie Irving about the match within the match with Edwards. “When Ant was a bit younger, I’m sure he would watch me. And when he was in high school, I watched him play. For me, this is one of those exciting duels that I can't wait to play. […] I respect his mentality, of not being afraid of anything. That’s why I like him as a competitor and as a person. But once we are on the pitch, we will give everything. »
