Kyrie Irving has absolutely no problem in paying Naji Marshall, PJ Washington’s fines after fight with Jusuf Nurkic

Kyrie Irving revealed his intentions to cover teammate's PJ Washington and Naji Marshall's fines following in-game brawl with Jusuf Nurkic.

Kyrie Irving has absolutely no problem in paying Naji Marshall, PJ Washington’s fines after fight with Jusuf Nurkic

Kyrie Irving stands up for teammates Naji Marshall and PJ Washington after fighting with Jusuf Nurkic

The Dallas Mavericks’ recent matchup against the Phoenix Suns turned into a fiery affair as an altercation between Jusuf Nurkic, Naji Marshall, and PJ Washington stole the spotlight. The game quickly devolved following an on-court brawl, leading to ejections and impending fines for the players involved. But Marshall and Washington need not worry, as Kyrie Irving is ready to cover for them.

Kyrie Irving ensured that his teammates wouldn’t have to bear the financial burden of their involvement. Following the game, Irving publicly declared his willingness to pay whatever fines the NBA would set for both Naji Marshall and PJ Washington. With this act, he showed solidarity with his teammates.

Moments like that just want everybody to be protecting themselves, and I feel like that’s what PJ was doing for Naji… And you know, if we’re out on the street—even though we’re not, we’re playing basketball, you’ve got to put your hands up and at least swing back. So, I’ll take care of his fine, whoever’s watching, PJ’s fine, their ejections, yeah, throw that s*** under the rug, man.

Kyrie Irving told Duane Rankin
YouTube video

The fight broke out early in the third quarter. After a tough offensive foul by Jusuf Nurkic, Naji Marshall squared up with the Sun’s big man. Nurkic swung the first blow before an all-out brawl ensued. With a 3-year, $120 million contract in hand, Kyrie Irving is more than equipped to absorb the financial hit. But it seems like Irving will have a tougher job than just covering his teammate’s fines.

FS Video

Following the incident, the NBA announced that Nurkic was handed a three-game suspension, while Marshall and Washington were handed a four and one-game suspension, respectively. All suspensions are without pay. Given this, Kyrie Irving would have to step in and pay the salary for the games his teammates miss.

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Kyrie Irving needs to step up in Luka Doncic’s absence

Friday’s game against the Suns displayed exactly what Mavs fans wanted to see. After losing their superstar player, Luka Doncic, to a prolonged injury on Christmas Night, the Mavericks needed to see Kyrie Irving take over the mantle and lead the team to victory. Without their superstar, the Mavericks leaned on Irving’s scoring and leadership, defeating the Suns 98-89.

Irving led the charge with 20 points. The Mavericks face a significant test over the next month as they navigate a stretch without their 5-time All-NBA player. Irving’s role becomes even more critical during this period as he steps into the primary playmaker role. His efficiency, shooting a career-high 44.4% from beyond the arc, and ability to replicate Doncic’s shot creation will be vital.

Irving’s teammate, Klay Thompson, spoke on the same as well, revealing that the team will rely on Irving to guide them through this tough stretch as their best player.

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Thankfully, though, Irving won’t have to carry the burden alone. The Mavericks’ roster has been bolstered by offseason additions like Marshall, Quentin Grimes, and Klay Thompson. They have provided critical spacing and offensive firepower. Although Washington and Marshall will not be available for the next few games, the Mavs will still look to maintain their spot as the 4th seed in the West.