3 important lessons learned in the Mavericks' 2023 preseason

1. Kyrie Irving and Dereck Lively II are an elite duo

Kyrie Irving and Dereck Lively II had the chance to suit up with each other in the Mavs' concluding preseason game. The duo would connect on multiple lob attempts, and they both complimented each other extremely well.

Having an elite duo such as the two will be crucial for the Mavericks' success moving forward.

Both Irving and Lively II benefited from each other's presence. Irving easily was able to use his elite dribble package to get inside and get easy fadeaway shots or layups at the rim. Lively II used Irving's spacing to get easy rolls toward the basket for multiple dunks.

Lively II already found an elite partner with Luka Doncic. Having two pick-and-roll partners will not only increase Lively II's production, but it will also be a lethal weapon for opposing defenses to look out for. In the Luka era, the Mavericks have failed to pair Doncic with an elite rim-rolling partner. Lively II will now have the opportunity to do this with both Doncic and Irving.

In addition, Irving already has a track record of forming young big men into elite rim-rolling partners. In his time with the Brooklyn Nets, Irving helped transform both Jarrett Allen and Nic Claxton into respectable big men. Irving will now do this with Lively II.

There is no doubt the connection between Kyrie Irving and Dereck Lively II will become elite. For more updates on the Dallas Mavericks as they prepare for their season opener against the San Antonio Spurs, stay plugged in.