Kyrie Irving of the Mavs tells Luka Doncic, “I have to play better.

DALLAS — The responsibility for the Dallas Mavericks trailing 2-0 in the NBA Finals falls squarely on Kyrie Irving, according to Irving himself. Following the Mavs’ Game 2 loss to the Boston Celtics on Sunday night, Irving had a conversation with his teammate Luka Doncic where he expressed his determination to improve.

“It all begins with me admitting to my brother that I need to step up my game alongside him,” Irving said after Tuesday’s practice at the American Airlines Center. “For us to achieve our goal, both of us must excel and do whatever it takes to win.”

Irving acknowledged his own shortcomings, particularly in the Mavs’ two losses in Boston where he averaged 14.0 points on 35.1% shooting. He emphasized his accountability for not meeting his usual standards and expressed his frustration, especially playing against his former team, the Celtics.

However, Irving is no stranger to being down 2-0 in the Finals, having experienced it twice before. He recalled his comeback with the against the Golden State Warriors in 2016, where he played a pivotal role in their championship win.

Looking ahead to Game 3, Irving anticipates a more aggressive approach from himself, something the Celtics are prepared to counter. Despite the challenge posed by the formidable Celtics, Irving remains resolute, recognizing the need for him to elevate his performance to turn the series around.