Irving has been a consistent source of offense for the Mavericks. He’s averaging 25.6 points, 4.8 rebounds and 4.8 assists. He’s also averaging a career-high in 3-point percentage (55.2%), which currently ranks fifth in the NBA. He’s made 32-of-58 from beyond the arc. His 58 attempts are the most of anyone in the top 10.

The Mavericks are Irving's fourth team in his NBA career, playing for the Cleveland Cavaliers, Boston Celtics, and Brooklyn Nets before being traded to Dallas, so he knows about homecoming games. He's struggled in games at Boston since his departure from there and can help Thompson get through some of the nerves and emotions of a game like this.

Kyrie Irving delivered a clear message to his Dallas Mavericks teammates following their loss to the Houston Rockets in the fifth game of the NBA regular season.