The Dallas Mavericks took another step toward securing a direct NBA playoff spot with a crucial victory over the Oklahoma City Thunder. Following the game, Kyrie Irving reflected on his transition from the Brooklyn Nets to Dallas Mavericks,

Jason Kidd said Kyrie Irving could potentially return on Friday after not playing on Wednesday against the Pelicans.

Wednesday’s controversial loss to the New Orleans Pelicans was an example of Irving’s latest injury management because of a bulging disc in his back. Irving said Tuesday that he would “most likely” play in a game that was on the road after the Mavericks suffered a lopsided loss at home to Denver the night before.