Kyrie Irving reveals 'double-edged sword' that will take Mavs to the promised land

The Dallas Mavericks overcame a three-game losing streak on Friday when they defeated the Oklahoma City Thunder by a score of 106-98. This was a win the team desperately needed, as they were robbed of a potential win on Wednesday when the NBA admitted to missing a late goaltending call.

Dallas, though, ensured that the same scenario didn't happen on Friday, as they took care of business. The Mavs had a 63-43 lead at halftime. Oklahoma City crept back into the game in the third quarter. Dallas would take care of business in the fourth, going on a 6-0 run late in the game. Overall, the Mavs played solid defense, finishing with 11 steals and seven blocks.

P.J. Washington was one player who was a key part of the team's turnaround on Friday. Washington had a solid outing, finishing the game with 16 points, seven rebounds, and five assists. Defensively, he played with physicality and intensity. Washington wasn't afraid to use his body to make things difficult for OKC. He played lockdown defense on Jalen Williams and others, as Washington and Naji Marshall did a great job at helping close this game out.

Irving knows Washington is essential to the Mavericks

It's clear Washington has been a vital part of the team's success this season. He is currently the team's fourth-leading scorer and third-leading rebounder. Washington also ranks in the top three in blocks and steals for Dallas. In simple terms, he is the team's leader on and off the court.

Washington's teammate Kyrie Irving spoke about his leadership. Irving mentioned how Washington is a "double-edged sword." This means that he can do multiple jobs at once. Washington can play excellent basketball on both ends of the court, and motivate his teammates to play at their best. Irving elaborated on how Washington's leadership extends beyond the locker room. It's Washington's vocal presence that stands out.

Irving explained how Washington is the one teammate who talks and encourages his teammates, motivates them, and pushes them to keep battling whenever he is on the court. He also advises them on what skills to use and can see the game in a way that forces the Mavs to play at their highest level. Irving went on to state that Washington is a "great guy."

His vocal delivery was greatly missed last month when Dallas fell to the Thunder in the quarterfinal round of the NBA Cup tournament. Washington missed the game with an illness that was being passed around the locker room. His vocal presence would have greatly benefited the team, as Dallas needed that extra motivation.

Washington's wise words are nothing new to Dallas. Last month, Washington delivered a simple three-word message to fire the team up. He stated that the team's mission is simple, "it's championship or bust." Despite the team's list of injuries, Washington does not stop motivating his teammates to play at a high level.

His motivation is the team's driving force. He is always the guy who will stand up for his teammates and do the team's dirty work. For example, last month Washington was suspended one game for shoving Phoenix Suns center Jusuf Nurkic. Many fans felt this was an unfair suspension, as Washington was simply backing up Naji Marshall.

This speaks volumes to the type of teammate Washington is. He is the Mavs' ultimate enforcer, who isn't afraid to do the dirty work. Last postseason, Washington became a fan favorite when he trolled the LA Clippers after staring down their bench. He then crossed his arms and "stood on business."

It's easy to point out that Washington has made his presence known in Dallas. Last season, the Mavs traded Grant Williams, Seth Curry, and a 2027 first-round pick for Washington. This is a trade that shifted in Dallas' favor, and it could end up being one of the top steals in Dallas Mavericks' history.

P.J. Washington will look to continue doing great things in Dallas, as he will gear up and look to help the Mavs take down his former team, the Charlotte Hornets on Monday. Afterward, Washington and Dallas will have their work cut out for them, as their next three games will be against teams from last year's playoffs. Look for Washington to continue being the vocal leader for Dallas, and his leadership and on-court dominance could be exactly what the Mavs need to make the NBA Finals again.