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NBA Season Preview 2017-18: 5 things to watch for on Opening Night

By Dre Elder

BOSTON, MA - OCTOBER 2: Gordon Hayward #20 and Kyrie Irving #11 of the Boston Celtics are seen during the game against the Charlotte Hornets during a preseason game on October 2, 2017 at the TD Garden in Boston, Massachusetts. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2017 NBAE (Photo by Brian Babineau/NBAE via Getty Images)
BOSTON, MA - OCTOBER 2: Gordon Hayward #20 and Kyrie Irving #11 of the Boston Celtics are seen during the game against the Charlotte Hornets during a preseason game on October 2, 2017 at the TD Garden in Boston, Massachusetts. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2017 NBAE (Photo by Brian Babineau/NBAE via Getty Images) /
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BOSTON, MA – OCTOBER 2: Gordon Hayward
BOSTON, MA – OCTOBER 2: Gordon Hayward /

1. Kyrie returns to Cleveland with new friends

Many people thought Kyrie Irving was crazy for not wanting to play with LeBron James anymore. They had gone to three straight NBA Finals together. And before James came back to Cleveland, Irving had never even sniffed the playoffs. Therefore, you can understand why Irving’s sanity was questioned. But, playing with LeBron can be as challenging as it is rewarding. Especially, if you’re an uber confident 25-year-old stud, who believes he has another level to reach.

When Irving signed a five-year extension in 2014 to remain with the Cavaliers, he did so thinking he would be the guy. LeBron literally announced he was coming home to Cleveland on the same day news broke of the Irving extension. How’s that for a plot twist? Irving is of the same ilk as Kobe Bryant. Consequently, he doesn’t do subservience well. Now he won’t have to be anyone’s ‘kid’ nor ‘little brother.’

Kyrie Irving is undoubtedly one of the league’s best big stage performers. You might recall him drilling the biggest shot in Cavaliers’ franchise history. On Tuesday night, Irving will step under the bright lights again. The territory will be familiar but hostile. He’s heard the chatter all summer. He knows the Celtics will be underdogs. Most importantly, he understands a big performance and a win can set the tone for this next chapter.

Next: 25-under-25 -- The best young players in the NBA

We’ve all heard the saying ‘be careful what you wish for.’ But, Kyrie Irving boldly went against the grain and got his wish. He must know something. And the only person standing in his way on opening night, is someone who used to be Derrick Rose. Get your popcorn ready!

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