“Ah, man, he’s going to steadily improve [on defense],” Irving said of Doncic’s defensive impact. “Every young player in our league comes in, and I don’t think defense is the first thought in their mind. You have to grow into that role and really appreciate getting stops. Some of the best players in the world, guys are giving that effort that it takes to not only win ball games but to dominate. “I think he’s at that point in his career, and I’m at that point in my career,” Irving continued. “I can speak for a lot of guys in this locker room.