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Mavericks to Suffer Due to Luka Doncic With NBA Drought, Hints Paul Pierce

Published 03/22/2024, 12:26 PM EDT

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USA Today via Reuters

Former Boston Celtics NBA champion Paul Pierce has criticized the playing style of the Dallas Mavericks, saying that Luka Doncic’s tendency to control the ball might not be enough for the team to win an NBA championship.

He has been widely recognized for his offensive playstyle. He displays the ability to score well, create chances for himself and his teammates, and is known for making lights-worthy plays but Pierce seems to hold the belief that Doncic’s reliance on ball possession is too much and could thwart the Mavericks’ aspirations for eventual success.

Pierce’s opinion was covered in part on the All the Smoke podcast. He remarked, “When you have somebody that ball-dominant, bro, you expect them to be great.”

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Despite Pierce’s opinion, analysts and fans contested many of his arguments, arguing that Doncic’s unique talent makes him more of a natural game-changer than a playmaker. The historical course of the NBA has indeed seen the success of pro players in winning championships. Players like Michael Jordan, Kobe Bryant and LeBron James have all experienced at times in their careers carrying more offensive weight for their teams. The modern NBA landscape has seen a shift towards a more collective style of play.

Doncic is still a young player, and his game continues to improve. Despite his reputation as a great scorer, he has also shown an increased ability to wear down teammates. Last Season, Doncic averaged 8 assists per game. This is a significant increase from his previous season. The Mavericks have Doncic with the likes of Kyrie Irving and Daniel Gafford.

Paul Pierce’s Comment: Does Ball Domination Hinder Championship Aspirations?

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 Ball-dominant guards have won NBA championships in the past. Players like Michael Jordan, Kobe Bryant, and LeBron James have carried the whole team to the championships. Recently however, the NBA has changed. There is a greater emphasis on spacing, ball movement, and good shot selection.

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Only the remaining season will tell us if Doncic’s style of play can help the Mavericks to win an NBA championship. Mavericks have shown form in recent seasons but have also fallen short in the playoffs. The team’s need to use Doncic’s talents are within the limits of a more team-oriented offence.

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The current season is an important one for the Mavericks. They need to improve their offence by maximizing Doncic’s talents and it should be within the framework of a team-oriented offence. They could be a serious contender for the title. However, they may find themselves facing an uphill battle if they rely too much on Doncic.

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Written by:

Daksh Saini

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Daksh Saini is an NBA writer at EssentiallySports, where his passion for basketball converges with insightful analysis. Daksh specializes in crafting compelling articles that delve into the legacies of NBA legends. His unique perspective, coupled with a deep understanding of the game, allows him to offer readers nuanced commentary and engaging narratives focused on the iconic figures who have shaped the history of professional basketball.
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Edited by:

Caroline Joseph