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USA Today via Reuters

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USA Today via Reuters

Luka Doncic and the Dallas Mavericks have been tangled up in a rather grim situation, something they didn?t expect a month ago. The Dallas side has been performing surprisingly poorly despite their superstar’s valiant efforts on the court. Understandably, every analyst in the NBA world has been carefully looking for the problems plaguing the Mavericks. While some have come up with a few outrageous takes, one former NBA star’s outlook on the team’s problems has started an extensive conversation.

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The Mavericks’ fall from grace has been quite dramatic to witness. Furthermore, their blockbuster trade involving Kyrie Irving before the deadline day had everyone talking.?Nevertheless, the Dallas side lost everyone’s attention pretty quickly with their dismal performances even with the Doncic-Irving duo. Recently, a former NBA star explicitly voiced his opinion on the team’s problems, which inspired fans to do the same.

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An Ex-NBA star dissects Luka Doncic and Co’s failures

On February 12th, just a few days after the Mavericks traded Spencer Dinwiddie, Dorian Finney-Smith, and a few draft picks for Kyrie Irving and Markieff Morris, the Dallas side was four seed. Fast forward just over a month, and the Texas side are sitting at the 11th position in the table, just out of the play-in position.

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USA Today via Reuters

Additionally, they suffered their fifth loss in seven games on Wednesday against the Philadelphia 76ers. Their current trajectory has them dangerously close to missing out on the postseason, which will be a reversal of fortunes considering their WC Finals appearance last season.

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Keeping the same thing in mind, Jamal Crawford, articulately discussed the team?s issues when recently asked on NBA on TNT. In a recent episode of NBA on TNT, Crawford was given the arduous task of discussing the problems plaguing the Dallas side, to which he had a rather interesting point of view.

“The Mavericks? problems started in the summer. When Jalen Brunson left that team, they lost their identity,” said Crawford. He added, “He was somebody who Luka respected, but he was also somebody who could play with him and get it done as well?Obviously Kyrie is a special talent and a special player, this isn’t Kyrie’s fault. You can’t throw these two together and say, ‘Hey figure it out’ with 20 games left in the West, and it’s this tight.”?

ALSO READ: Luka Doncic Gets Struck With ?Worst? Humiliation That Makes Mavericks Fans Fume

Since this statement by Crawford, fans have reacted with mixed opinions on the issue. Although Brunson played a crucial role in the Mavericks’ campaign to the Western Conference finals last season, his departure alone does not account for the team’s struggles in the latter half of the season.

Fans react to Crawford’s unusual point of view

Some Dallas fans are not as forgiving towards Kyrie Irving as Crawford.?The drop in the team’s performances perfectly aligns with his debut in the squad, something which gives them food for thought. However, some fans do have the same sentiment as Crawford as they believe that putting Doncic and Irving together to create a blockbuster team for the postseason was never a good idea.

Some fans have also pointed out that the Mavericks’ Head Coach, Jason Kidd, has made below-par contributions.?

Do you think the Mavs have a chance to reach the playoffs? Or even the play-in position? Let us know in the comments below.

Watch This Story: John Wall-Bradley Beal, LeBron James-Kyrie Irving brotherhood moments

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Written by

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Shankha Shuvra Das

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Shankha Shuvra Das is an NBA writer whose expertise lies in the intricacies of the league's business side. With a Master's Degree in Economics, he is well-equipped to analyze the complex commercial aspects of the world's third-richest sports league. As a writer at EssentiallySports, Shankha has demonstrated remarkable proficiency, particularly in his coverage of the FTX debacle that implicated several NBA stars. His in-depth analysis and transparent reporting have earned him a reputation for delivering high-quality content that fans and industry professionals alike can trust. Shankha's extensive coverage of Shaquille O'Neal and his various ventures outside of basketball also showcases his ability to provide insight into the business side of sports. His writing is engaging, informative, and always well-researched, making him a valuable resource for anyone looking to gain a better understanding of the NBA's commercial landscape. When he's not busy writing, Shankha can be found hitting pads at a kickboxing gym or trying his hand at writing screenplays for movies. This passion for both sports and creative endeavors is reflected in his work, which always showcases a unique perspective and attention to detail. Overall, Shankha is a skilled writer whose transparency and commitment to quality make him a trusted authority on the business of the NBA.

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Aayush Kapoor

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