Luka Doncic Reflects on Best On-Court Teammate: Kyrie Irving

Doncic's comments on his chemistry with Irving stir bittersweet emotions for Mavericks fans.

Published on Feb. 7, 2026

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In a recent podcast interview, Dallas Mavericks star Luka Doncic acknowledged that his best on-court teammate was Kyrie Irving, with whom he formed a close bond during their time playing together in Dallas. Doncic's wistful comments about the duo's chemistry and their run to the 2024 NBA Finals have left Mavericks fans longing for what could have been, as the partnership was ultimately cut short due to a series of front office decisions.

Why it matters

Doncic's admission that Irving was his ideal teammate highlights the special connection the two players shared, both on and off the court. Their partnership represented a tantalizing vision of what the Mavericks could have achieved, had the team's leadership been more patient and committed to building around the dynamic duo. The fallout from that missed opportunity continues to linger for the franchise and its fanbase.

The details

In the interview, Doncic told hosts Vince Carter and Tracy McGrady that he had 'always said Kyrie' was his best on-court teammate. He noted that it took them some time to develop chemistry, but once they did, the team went to the Finals in the 2024 season. When pressed further, Doncic acknowledged that he hasn't seen anyone with Irving's unique skillset.

  • Doncic and Irving played together for the Dallas Mavericks during the 2023-24 NBA season.
  • The Mavericks reached the NBA Finals in the 2024 season, Doncic and Irving's first full year as teammates.

The players

Luka Doncic

A Slovenian professional basketball player who has been the star of the Dallas Mavericks since being drafted by the team in 2018.

Kyrie Irving

An American professional basketball player who joined the Mavericks in a midseason trade during the 2023-24 season, forming a dynamic partnership with Doncic.

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What they’re saying

“I've always said Kyrie... It took us some time. He came in the middle of the season that year... we weren't good. We didn't have the chemistry we had next year... That preseason helped us a lot. And that team that we had, we went to the finals.”

— Luka Doncic (Cousins* podcast)

“Have you seen anyone with that skillset that Ky has?”

— Tracy McGrady, Host (Cousins* podcast)

“No.”

— Luka Doncic (Cousins* podcast)

What’s next

Doncic's comments have reignited speculation about a potential reunion with the Mavericks, as he holds an opt-out clause in his contract with the Lakers in 2028. The Mavericks' front office is working to rebuild the roster and regain the trust of the fanbase, with the possibility of bringing Doncic back seen as a potential homerun move.

The takeaway

Doncic's wistful reflection on his partnership with Irving highlights the 'what-if' scenario that continues to haunt Mavericks fans. The duo's on-court chemistry and off-court bond represented a tantalizing vision of the team's potential, which was ultimately cut short due to front office decisions. This episode serves as a cautionary tale about the importance of patience and commitment in building around star players.