“You’re Trying to Think Three Moves Ahead.”- Kyrie Irving Compared the Upcoming Clippers-Mavs 1st Playoff Game to a Chess Match

During his time with the Cleveland Cavaliers, Kyrie Irving played under Ty Lue, the head coach of the Los Angeles Clippers’ bench unit. They humiliated the 73-9 Golden State Warriors alongside LeBron James in 2016. They guided the Cavs to the NBA’s summit by overcoming a 3-1 deficit in the championship series.

Lue and Irving will be on different teams in Sunday’s tantalizing first-round matchup between the Clippers and Dallas Mavericks. During LA’s previous two postseason series victories against the Mavs, Luka Doncic and Kyrie Irving hadn’t yet been paired. Lue’s most significant problems will be the two superstars when the fight starts.

Asked Kyrie Irving about his approach to Game 1s, which some players/coaches use as a “feel out game.”

He compared it to a chess match, and he’s looking forward to seeing what adjustments will come from Ty Lue, his former coach.

“You’re trying to think three moves ahead.” pic.twitter.com/rDvwtA0NF9

— Mike Curtis (@MikeACurtis2) April 19, 2024

During the Dallas Mavericks practice, Kyrie Irving was questioned about his next chess match with Ty Lue. Mike Curtis said what Irving said about playing against his former coach in a series.

“I think it’s more or less just the beginning of a chess match. You’re just trying to think three moves ahead. Trying to see different things that your opponent’s going to risk. What are they going to show?” Irving stated.

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Kyrie Irving Is Fully Prepared to Face the Cavaliers Ahead of Their Playoff Clash

Lue is fully aware of Irving’s style of play. He was the playmaker in the Cavaliers versus. Warriors game seven play that resulted in Irving’s game-winning 3-pointer over Steph Curry. Even though LeBron James wasn’t on the court, he knew the point guard had the fortitude to hold his composure on the game’s most critical play.

The main worry surrounding the Dallas Mavericks-LA Clippers matchup is Kawhi Leonard’s condition. The Clippers will be favored if he stays out or plays with less than 100% of his potential.

Kyrie Irving looks forward to seeing how his chess match with Ty Lue goes. If the coach trailed early in the game, he may already be disadvantaged. Irving could be eyeing a mate by the time their maneuvers are complete.

Also Read: Will Kawhi Leonard Play Against the Mavericks? Clippers GM Provides Update on Their Star Forward