What happened: Kyrie Irving discussed his focus on leadership during Dallas Mavericks Media Day. The veteran guard emphasized his goal to raise the collective level of play and bring out the best in his teammates whenever he steps into the gym.

Why it matters: His off-court impact is a focal point for the Mavericks as he recovers from a 2025 ACL injury. Irving's expressed commitment to the Dallas locker room comes amid external trade rumors that the organization has previously denied.

What to watch: Watch for updates on Irving's rehab progression and his status for training camp ahead of the 2026-27 season.