Shai Gilgeous-Alexander and Stephen Curry were voted as the backcourt representatives in the Western Conference.

Evidently, having key players like Luka Doncic and Dereck Lively sidelined while Kyrie Irving plays through a crucial injury doesn't bode well for the Mavericks' success. While th

Irving is listed on the injury report as he continues to deal with a lumbar back sprain. Meanwhile, Dereck Lively II (right ankle sprain), Luka Doncic (left calf strain) and Dante Exum (right wrist surgery) are all out for Friday's game. It is worth noting that Mavs head coach Jason Kidd previously said he expects Irving to play on Friday.

Even without important pieces like Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, Luka Doncic, Chet Holmgren, Isaiah Hartenstein and Dereck Lively II, both teams' role players simmered the beef between the ball clubs. The usually well-mannered Thunder were hit with multiple technical fouls. PJ Washington continued to poke the bear.

As we mentioned earlier, Kai has already featured in the NBA All-Star game eight times in his career. While the Mavs guard is averaging 24.2 points, 4.5 rebounds, and 4.8 assists per game, his inability to win games could dwindle his chances of making the 2025 NBA All-Star game.

It's an unfortunate day for the Texas side. The post Unfair NBA Refereeing of Kyrie Irving Draws Mavericks Fans' Protests as Mavericks Star Predicts Another Injury appeared first on EssentiallySports.