Kyrie Irving was given both bad and good news recently.
He was informed that his new teammate, Anthony Davis, is hurt and will be out for the foreseeable future.
But he was also told that he would replace Davis in the upcoming NBA All-Star Game, which is a huge honor.
Speaking to Joey Mistretta and the press, Klay Thompson talked about Irving being chosen to replace Davis.
“Kyrie is one of the best players of my generation. No question. The accolades, the resume is ridiculous. … You don’t become a nine-time All-Star by accident. That’s elite company. He inspires me and everyone else in this building, because he’s one of the most talented players I’ve ever seen,” Thompson said, per ClutchPoints.
Mavs guard Klay Thompson on Kyrie Irving earning his 9th career All-Star selection:
“Kyrie is one of the best players of my generation. No question. The accolades, the resume is ridiculous. … You don’t become a nine-time All-Star by accident. That’s elite company. He inspires… pic.twitter.com/ho8v4o1bPp
— ClutchPoints (@ClutchPoints) February 11, 2025
As Thompson noted, Irving has been selected for the All-Star Game nine times now.
The last time he participated was in 2022-23, so it’s been a little while since he has been back.
Mavericks fans have seen what Irving can do, and he is still one of the smartest and most reliable floor generals in the league.
This season, Irving is averaging 24.2 points, 4.7 rebounds, and 4.9 assists.
The Mavericks are turning to him often, and they will be doing so even more now that Luka Doncic is gone.
And with the loss of Davis and the team’s other big men, Irving will have a lot on his shoulders.
But like Thompson said, he is one of the most professional stars in the league, so he is probably up to the task.
Irving will attempt to play even better and will inspire and ask more of his teammates, such as Thompson and others.
Whether it’s on an All-Star team or with his Mavericks, Irving elevates every squad he’s a part of.
NEXT: Brian Windhorst Gives Concerning Update On Anthony Davis’ Injury
