Mavs Hype Suppressed By Kyrie Irving’s National Media Reputation?

The term "guilty by association" is used too much in a country where "innocent until proven guilty" leads the U.S. judicial system. However, Kyrie Irving's past transgressions, whether on-court or off, seemingly smeared the 2016 champion's reputation. Could Irving's past taint the Dallas Mavericks regarding national media respect?

During a recent DLLS Mavs podcast , Mavs beat writer Tim Cato suggested numerous media members still have issues with Irving.

Cato mentioned Irving's past activities, which caused specific media markets and even national pundits to view him with a slanted eye. However, after the dust settles from years of eye-rolling behavior, Irving is a new man.

Nonetheless, the writers of markets in which Irving "wronged" apparently have trust issues. Irving's track record is that of a ticking timer. Although it may appear you have plenty of time, the buzzer is near. The Boston Celtics and Brooklyn Nets can attest to such claims.

However, people change, and unless Irving "regresses," it's hard to ignore the Mavericks' success, regardless of an opinion based on past Irving activities or actions.

ESPN reporters such as Tim Bontemps were flabbergasted by the idea of Dallas winning 53-56 games. Although it's not a lock for the Mavericks to win as many games, the team led the league in defensive rating in the last 15 games and dismantled top defensive teams en route to the 2024 NBA Finals.

Related: Mavs' Kyrie Irving Belongs to a Prestigious Statistical Club

Disdain for a player is one thing, but tainting your perception of a whole team is odd behavior. Irving's past isn't something we must forget, but clouding your vision and analysis of a championship contender due to personal grievances is irresponsible.