Cooper Flagg is the Mavericks' star but Kyrie Irving remains their soul

The Dallas Mavericks’ 120–96 victory over the Oklahoma City Thunder improved their record to 3–2 and offered another reminder of Cooper Flagg’s brilliance. The 19-year-old phenom finished with 26 points, five rebounds, and eight assists and did little to dispel the growing notion that he is already one of the league’s best players.

Yet the highlight of the night belonged to someone else: his 34-year-old teammate, who had not played a home regular-season game since March 3, 2025: Kyrie Irving.

Kyrie Irving's leadership is invaluable for the Mavericks

Speculation surrounding Irving’s return began long before he stepped back onto the court earlier this month. Throughout the offseason, reports emerged that the veteran guard and Flagg had been working out together.

Irving’s influence extended well beyond his relationship with the Mavericks’ young superstar. The veteran guard embraced his leadership role over the summer as he organized a mini camp in California designed to bring the roster closer together, which included beach yoga. Those activities provided younger players with an opportunity to learn from Irving on and off the court.

Irving gives the Mavericks much more than scoring and playmaking

Dallas’ early-season wins have understandably been centered on Flagg, whose growth has been one of the team’s most entertaining storylines. The supporting cast, meanwhile, remains a work in progress. Rotations continue to evolve, and new additions are still adjusting to their roles alongside the team’s established veterans.

One thing that does not remain a work in progress, though, is Irving's effect on Flagg's game. The nine-time All-Star has been a major help for Flagg and his development, and the chemistry that this duo is building is evident.

Irving's on-ball gravity, ability to create his own shot, and selflessness have been huge for Coop, as he now has someone in the lineup who can also take over the game when needed. This was not the case for Flagg during his rookie year.

Flagg clearly values Irving's presence on and off the court, and even while Kyrie was out last season, he was still a frequent presence on the sidelines. His value to this team should never be undermined, and he clearly remains the team's soul and backbone despite the baton being passed to Cooper.

Irving gives Flagg a teammate to learn from

Even while operating under a minutes restriction, the veteran guard is averaging 18.0 points, 3.8 assists, and 1.5 steals per game while shooting 49.1 percent from the field. However, his importance goes beyond the court.

His experience and ability to provide open looks for others have provided a stabilizing presence for a roster still searching for consistency and playmaking. Irving can be seen on the bench providing coaching and often giving friendly words of encouragement to teammates.

These types of things won't show up on the stat sheet, but they show why he's the soul of the team. Kyrie is practically an extension of the coaching staff with his knowledge of the game and desire to direct his teammates.

Irving's first game back at the AAC shows why he's the soul of the team

The reception Irving received during his October 28 return to the home floor offered a glimpse of his importance to the organization and its fan base. The standing ovation when his name was announced during the starting lineup introductions was more than an acknowledgment of his talent; it reflected the connection he has already established with not only his teammates but also the city of Dallas.

He may not be putting up as many points as Flagg, but his importance to the team is priceless. His leadership, poise, and experience make him someone that Dallas must keep around for this new era, as he has been through thick and thin with the team and deserves to be a key piece as they try to reach the NBA Playoffs for the first time since 2024.

Dallas has already experienced the consequences of a franchise-altering trade from when they traded Luka Doncic in February 2025. Before considering another one with Irving, the front office must determine whether moving Irving would truly move the Mavericks forward or create another leadership hole that even Flagg’s extraordinary talent may not be able to fill immediately.

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