DALLAS — The Dallas Mavericks urgently required a standout performance from their leader.

In the aftermath of general manager Nico Harrison’s surprising decision to trade star player Luka Doncic to the Los Angeles Lakers, turmoil engulfed the Mavs. All-Star Anthony Davis, the marquee asset acquired from L.A., along with the team’s remaining top big men, faced extended absences due to injuries. Frustration boiled over among fans, leading to ejections during Monday’s overtime defeat against the Sacramento Kings for mere acts of protest. Coach Jason Kidd, overwhelmed with emotion, opted out of his postgame press conference, later issuing apologies ahead of Wednesday’s match.

Kyrie Irving, however, maintained his composure throughout the upheaval. He ensured that fans and players alike had a moment of joy by netting 42 points and securing a key charge in the final moments, leading to a 111-107 victory over the Golden State Warriors.

“That was special,” remarked Mavs guard Klay Thompson, who contributed 17 points against his previous team. “That was phenomenal — 42 points and a key defensive play at the end. It was exactly what we needed, especially since I wasn’t at my best. He’s our point guard, and that was extraordinary.”

The atmosphere at the American Airlines Center included a significant number of Warriors supporters, a common sight during the Stephen Curry era, alongside many wearing Doncic jerseys. Unlike Monday’s game, there was no unrest in the stands, and the tension of “Fire Nico!” chants was absent.

Irving attributed the team’s energy boost to the crowd’s support. This enthusiasm proved crucial, especially with numerous injuries forcing 6-foot-7 Kessler Edwards, who is under a two-way contract, to step in as center.

“In games like tonight, looking for that energy, you can draw from the crowd,” Irving shared. “It energizes us, especially in our home arena. We must safeguard our territory, and our fans understand that. Although we’re facing unique challenges, we still need to put forth our best effort.”

Preparing for his ninth All-Star selection this weekend as Davis’s replacement, Irving dazzled the audience with an outstanding shooting performance.

He shot 15-of-25 from the field, including a remarkable 7-of-10 from beyond the arc, with an explosive three-pointers streak that lit up the third quarter. According to ESPN Research, 32 of Irving’s points came on contested shots, highlighting his skill (12-of-21 in those instances).

“That’s what top players do,” said Curry, who scored 25 points. “They rise to the occasion even amid adversity. In the first half, we had a few breakdowns, and he capitalized on those. When he gets hot, it’s tough to cool him down.”

The Warriors had an opportunity to tie or take the lead after Naji Marshall’s floater put the Mavs ahead by two with 25.2 seconds left.

Irving, who logged just under 40 minutes on the court, sealed the victory by drawing a charge against Jimmy Butler during a drive.

“Simply put, if I’m putting myself on the line, we all have to,” stated Irving, who has been navigating a bulging disc in his lower back. “For me, it’s about a shared commitment to do whatever it takes to win.”