Why is Kyrie Irving not playing vs Clippers? Former NBA champion's absence for Mavericks' preseason game explored

The Dallas Mavericks are set to play the LA Clippers on Monday in their third preseason game. However, they won't have All-Star guard Kyrie Irving in the lineup tonight.

Per Grant Afseth, Irving will be rested for the contest.

Irving has only played one game since the preseason started, against the Utah Jazz on Oct. 10. The one-time NBA champion played 16 minutes and finished with 12 points, four rebounds and an assist.

He shot 6-11 from the field and failed to make a shot from beyond the arc, as the 2016 champion went 0-4.

Irving isn't the only Mavs player to miss tonight's game. Luka Doncic is listed as out as he deals with a left calf contusion. Maxi Kleber is also out against the Clippers with a left ankle sprain.

Guard Dante Exum and forward Kessler Edwards won't suit up as they are dealing with a right wrist injury and a left ankle sprain, respectively.

Klay Thompson will reportedly be in the starting lineup for Dallas. He'll be among the starters with Jaden Hardy, Spencer Dinwiddie, PJ Washington and Dereck Lively II.

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Mavs forward loved Kyrie Irving's gesture of hosting the team during their road trip

During the trip to California, Kyrie Irving invited the team to his home in LA. One of his new teammates, Naji Marshall, shared what it was like to be invited to Irving's home.

"It was beautiful," Marshall said about Irving's house. "He's got an amazing crib, amazing family. He welcomed us with open arms. It was just an amazing team-bonding trip."

Since his arrival in Dallas, Irving's teammates have spoken highly of him. That includes the coaching staff of Jason Kidd and team owner Mark Cuban.

Earlier this week, Kidd praised Irving's leadership style and influence on the Mavs' younger players.

"When you talk about [Kyrie Irving’s leadership], he’s soft-spoken but powerful. Because when you look at what he’s done to this point, he’s a champion, he’s won. Everyone respects his game… wanna pick his brain on how they can all get better. He spends a lot of time with the young group."

The 32-year-old is entering his 14th NBA season. He averaged 25.6 points, 5.0 rebounds, and 5.2 assists last year. The star guard also shot 49.7% from the field and 41.1% on 3-pointers as he finished seventh in the Clutch Player of the Year voting.