Mavs’ Kyrie Irving, Clippers’ Russell Westbrook Hoop in ‘The Realistic Videos
In preparation for the upcoming NBA training camps, the Mavericks’ Kyrie Irving and the Clippers’ Russell Westbrook have been hitting the court together, putting in the hard work needed to excel in the upcoming season.
These star guards were captured on film training with a unique tool known as “The Realistic.” Coaches and trainers use this technology to simulate the height and presence of NBA players during practice sessions, providing an experience that closely resembles playing against actual opponents, all while minimizing the risk of injury.
For both Westbrook and Irving, the upcoming season holds significant importance. Russell Westbrook had an impressive finish to the 2022-23 season after joining the Los Angeles Clippers. He averaged an impressive 15.8 points per game, shooting at an impressive 48.9 percent, and dished out 7.6 assists per game in his 21 starts.
During the first-round playoff series against the Phoenix Suns, Westbrook displayed his determination, striving to carry the Clippers when they lost Paul George after Kawhi Leonard’s injury in Game 2. He put up remarkable numbers, averaging 23.6 points, 7.6 rebounds, and 7.4 assists in a series that Los Angeles ultimately lost in five games. The Clippers recognized his value and brought Westbrook back on a two-year, $8 million deal in free agency.
Kyrie Irving had a memorable 2022-23 season, although not all of it was positive. He found himself suspended by the Brooklyn Nets after sharing content from a movie and book that contained antisemitic themes, and he initially refused to apologize for his actions.
Eventually, the eight-time All-Star did issue an apology to the Jewish community, but he later deleted it from his social media. This incident happened as he was traded from the Nets to the Dallas Mavericks.
Speaking to reporters on February 7th, Irving clarified his actions, stating, “I delete things all the time, and it’s no disrespect to anyone within the community; I’m simply living my life.”
The Mavericks made two significant moves involving Irving. The first took place on February 6th when they acquired him in a trade that involved Dorian Finney-Smith, Spencer Dinwiddie, and three draft picks, including an unprotected 2029 first-round selection, in exchange for Irving.
The second move saw the Mavericks sign Irving to a lucrative three-year, $120 million deal in free agency. They aspire to establish a formidable duo in Irving and Luka Dončić, with the intent of propelling the franchise to the upper echelons of the highly competitive Western Conference. As the NBA season draws near, the basketball world eagerly anticipates the impact these star players will have on their respective teams.
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