Wednesday’s controversial loss to the New Orleans Pelicans was an example of Irving’s latest injury management because of a bulging disc in his back. Irving said Tuesday that he would “most likely” play in a game that was on the road after the Mavericks suffered a lopsided loss at home to Denver the night before.

The Mavericks are already playing without All-Star guard Luka Doncic, who's sidelined with a calf injury suffered on Christmas.

Kyrie Irving — an expert in rivalries — agreed that the Thunder and Mavericks have become arch-nemesis. “It’s personal. I think it’s the start of a healthy rivalry," Irving said. "... We’re gonna be seeing them a lot over the next few years so it’s good that you set the precedent now what it’s gonna be like.