Kyrie Irving Drops Honest Admission About How Anthony Edwards' Viral Comment Impacted Him

After Anthony Edwards and the Minnesota Timberwolves won Game 7 vs. Denver, Edwards announced that he'd be defending Kyrie Irving. He seemed eager at that opportunity in a boastful way. Well, Irving won round one on Wednesday night.

The Mavericks beat Minnesota 108-105 to win Game 1 of the Western Conference Finals. Irving finished with 30 points, five rebounds and four assists.

He had several strong moments against Edwards, who was clearly fatigued by chasing Irving around all night. Edwards finished the game with just 19 points.

After the game, Irving joined Charles Barkley, Shaquille O'Neal and the rest of TNT's Inside the NBA crew for an interview.

Barkley pressed Irving about Edwards' viral comment. He gave an interesting response. Irving said he used Edwards' comments as motivation, but he also saw it as a sign of respect.

"I used it as a motivational tactic," Irving said with a chuckle.

"When I was sitting at home and I saw it I was like, 'This is a sign of respect.'"

"... But also that's a no fear mentality, and that's why we love Ant."

That's how a veteran should respond to situations like this. Kyrie Irving appears more grounded than ever, and it's a big reason why the Mavericks have had so much success this postseason.

Game 2 is Friday night. Will Kyrie Irving continue to outplay Anthony Edwards?

Related: Reggie Miller Kept Saying The Same Thing About Anthony Edwards During Game 1