Kyrie Irving and the Dallas Mavericks have had a terrific start to the season, sitting with the NBA’s second-best record (6-1) after seven games. Irving attributes the Mavericks’ early-season success to their better team camaraderie.

Irving discussed the team’s success in close games during his postgame interview following Dallas’ 117-102 comeback win over the Orlando Magic on Monday. He stated that the team’s players have held each other more accountable this season, which has allowed the Mavericks to overcome late-game adversity:

“I think this year we’re really galvanizing each other and holding each other accountable during those tough situations, which helps our chemistry,” Irving said.

Irving emphasized that Dallas’ success extends beyond himself and his teammate, Luka Doncic, who combined for 23 fourth-quarter points on Monday. The star guard stated that the two of them understand how important it is for their teammates to prosper in order for the Mavericks to be successful:

“But it’s bigger than us two, and we know that we need our teammates to play well on both ends of the floor. So, it’s more of a team game,” Irving said.

Only one of the Mavericks’ six victories has come against a winning team. That was their most recent triumph (4-3) over the Magic. Meanwhile, their lone defeat came at the hands of the defending champion Denver Nuggets (7-1). However, the Mavericks are 2-0 without Irving this season, demonstrating their outstanding team performance.

Dallas has four players averaging 15+ points per game and eight players averaging 8+ ppg after seven games. The Mavericks also have the fourth-best team offensive rating in the league (119.7), with only a little margin between them and the league leader (120.4).

So far in Irving’s first full season in Dallas, things are looking up for him and the Mavericks.