What happened: Kevin Durant commended Kyrie Irving's work ethic and mental approach to basketball during a postgame presser. Durant described the guard as a savant whose name is synonymous with the sport. The praise precedes Irving's expected return to the court.

Why it matters: Irving is nearing his first game action in 19 months. His prolonged ACL rehabilitation was recently delayed by a calf strain, extending his on-court absence to 472 days. The return will reintegrate a primary piece into the Dallas rotation for the upcoming 2026-27 season.

What to watch: Irving prepares for his first on-court action alongside Cooper Flagg in the Dallas preseason.