Why the NBA is Terrified of Luka Doncic

Luka Doncic has finally returned from his calf strain, and we're seeing him elevate the Dallas Mavericks to new heights as they take on the Utah Jazz in this first round NBA playoff matchup. Alongside Jalen Brunson, this duo of Doncic and Brunson could be a major threat.
Luka is already establishing himself as a future hall of famer at only 23 years old, and there's nowhere to go but up. I looked at how he's changing everything for the Mavericks and making life as difficult as possible for Utah. Doncic truly has the potential to climb as high as he wants to among the NBA All Time Greats. Luka Doncic is that good.
➥ 𝙎𝙪𝙗𝙨𝙘𝙧𝙞𝙗𝙚: www.youtube.co...
➥ 𝙁𝙤𝙡𝙡𝙤𝙬 𝙢𝙚 𝙤𝙣 𝙩𝙬𝙞𝙩𝙩𝙚𝙧: / alexhoopsyt
➥ 𝙁𝙤𝙡𝙡𝙤𝙬 𝙢𝙚 𝙤𝙣 𝙞𝙣𝙨𝙩𝙖𝙜𝙧𝙖𝙢: / alexhoops_
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➥ 𝘼𝙡𝙡 𝙊𝙩𝙝𝙚𝙧 𝙇𝙞𝙣𝙠𝙨: direct.me/alex...
➥ 𝙖𝙗𝙤𝙪𝙩 𝙢𝙚
I am an #NBA​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​ fan who loves the game of basketball​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​. I cover the NBA in various capacities as a writer and digital content creator. I run this podcast and post videos multiple times a week on here as well as shorter clips and pictures on my Instagram. If you love basketball and the NBA, be sure to subscribe to my channel and follow me on Instagram. This video is about the #DallasMavericks #LukaDoncic
My videos are inspired by people like Mike Korzemba, Rusty Buckets, KOT4Q, Thinking Basketball, and many other great creators!
DISCLAIMER: I do not claim ownership of any footage or clips used in this video. The use of these clips is protected under Fair Use Policy.

[@flapp-jck1226]

Luka and Jokic are mind-blowing , when other players in the league make great plays we say “WOW!!” , when these two play we say “HOW”.

[@chessexpertchaney4770]

Great point

[@mickelin100]

yeah...so true

[@kinghitthisbloke9527]

Luka puts up center numbers at point with a team similar to Jokic, it’s a shame he isn’t liked by the media so he never got to b in the MVP convo

[@jeffrhodes8103]

Cause they’re white?

[@mickelin100]

@@jeffrhodes8103 ok no...because their really good....what continent did 3 last year MVP comes from...yeah its not about the colour your skin

[@alpkulaksizoglu3230]

Nets got swept because KD doesn’t know how to make assists when he is doubled. Luka is the most doubled player in the league with the highest usage rate and has ELITE DECISION MAKING.

[@DelightFools]

Larry Legend reincarnate

[@ninjabieber7695]

@@DelightFools luka bird Larry doncic

[@Liam11433]

@@DelightFools I’ve thought this also, his IQ, crazy pass vision, clutch play & his slower pace. Let’s just hope he doesn’t have anywhere near as bad injuries & he’ll for sure be one of the greatest to ever play the game when he’s done

[@chasejordan9295]

@@Liam11433 God with the knowledge we have now im sure he's doing as much as he needs to stay healthy for his career, i'd like to see him try to become more athletic, because while he's strong and he's played basketball his whole life i dont believe he's ever actually trained to be "athletic" in terms of jump height and sprint speed and everything, obviously he doesnt need to, he's just so dominant already. But It's clear he hasn't and I cant even imagine what it'd look like if he truly trained for that... Who knows maybe it'd mess up his game but i feel like it'd only enhance it

[@Liam11433]

@@chasejordan9295 I can see that, we’ve seen an improvement just from the start of the season to now. He said himself he’s not getting as tired, he’s jumping higher & feeling stronger. If he can keep building on that he’s going to be unstoppable. He’s already a big ass point who’s stopping him if he gets built

[@michaelford1602]

Slow is smooth, smooth is fast! Always in control! He’s phenomenal! May go down as one of the best if he can win 3 or 4 championships! We all know titles are how people judge you as a player. Just as Charles Barkley and Karl Malone!

[@darrondoss8660]

This is true!

[@SeanCarterCFH]

Titles are how non basketball fans of basketball judge players. Re-read that.

[@jno1725]

@@SeanCarterCFH titles are how everybody should judge players greatness if that player is the bus driver not just a rider...remember the goal of any sport is to win...

[@Zeldaytal]

@@jno1725 Yes and no. No one would consider Perkins better than Jokic.

[@lebronjamesharden3958]

@@jno1725 Bill Russel is GOAT then

[@wowmawc]

That's what I said too, as a rookie he was already playing like a vet.. playing at his own pace and not relying on athleticism. This style of play screams longevity, he's gonna be a problem for a long time.

[@EverythingMustG0]

If he gets his conditioning right he could stay at this level for literally a couple decades

[@ivanleon6164]

been saying this for some time, he will be a beast for 15 years, lol, will break every fucking record.

[@ArkAngelHFB]

If you never relied on having a step on the other person... you never worry about losing that step. Dude could be like Tom Brady... physically lacking behind most of his peer... and mentally out performing them at the same time.

[@Quicksilver_Cookie]

@@ArkAngelHFB How is Luca lacking physically though? I don't really get all this talk. He seems to be just as athletic and agile as the next guy. It's just when you have this vision of the game, and this level of quick playmaking you don't have to just bust your ass all the time. You can run around like a horse with a mustard up it's bottom, and achieve nothing. Or you can be a precision tool. Small moves, big results.

[@brinds7374]

we’re from the same country.. my brother played with him when he was on a basketball camp while luka was still 16 but he said luka wasn’t anything impressive then.. he improved really fast

[@DaveJLamar]

“He plays like a veteran.” Well, cuz technically he is. Crazy to think that at 23 he’s already been playing against grown men since he was 16. Which is why isn’t no surprise as to why he just looks so comfortable out there. And to think he’s not even in his prime prime yet! 😳

[@hamasagaming8607]

This is what a lot of people are not understanding. Euro ball is way way above NCAA as well

[@bestplayeralive]

He signed his first contract with approval of his parents when he was 13.

[@intercrew99]

good point

[@stenhusheablovers629]

There is a lot of guys in the NBA that’s played professional ball since young age tho

[@MrArgy333]

@@stenhusheablovers629 Not with the best team in the Euroleague at that time

[@thirdycarlos6950]

I started watching NBA again because of Luca. I love his assists and long shots. He is unpredictable

[@fortuneteller2639]

Luka

[@thirdycarlos6950]

@@fortuneteller2639 whatever

[@kahntul-ay2500]

"He is the prototype for the direction that the NBA has been hurdling towards for the last ten years..." i like that. It makes a totally different kind of ball game. More on IQ, but well balanced with the physicality of the game.

[@JulioLeonFandinho]

fresh news for you, that's how basketball used to be played... all the great playmakers, from Oscar Robertson to Doncic, played at their own pace and the rest had to follow them. When this era of combo guards started, the art of playmaking and the ways of classic point guards were almost lost... and I don't think it's coming back for the moment, with all these iso plays and pick and rolls.

[@kahntul-ay2500]

@@JulioLeonFandinho Our topic is: Luka is the prototype. That means he is new. Oscar Robertson and the oldies may be great to watch in their time. If you watch them again now on film or video or whatever media they are available. I can guarantee you 100%, their ball handling look awkward therefore not entertaining in todays standards. That's because they had those rules called Lifting and Palming , together with a very restrictive travelling rule. We all owe it to Jordan who broke rules by demontrating how basketball can be so spectacular and entertaining. After that Allen Iverson also exagerrated his ball handling which changed rules again further, then Kobe, Lebron and so on. The most ridiculuos of them all, James Harden with his travelling step back. Therefore, putting all adjustments together in the form of a FRESH person with a HIGH IQ, then we have Luka Doncic, the new prototype.

[@Vergel520]

The prototype was James Harden, D'Antoni created this offense, Luka is the younger and more efficient version. Everything the narrator is saying can be said to Houston James Harden lol

[@dickwinters-black4459]

@@kahntul-ay2500 In your comments you fail to recognize the players who inspired Jordan's generation. Luka is not a prototype. The point forward is at least thirty years old, and a few of them have won championships. And he is a HORRIBLE DEFENDER - particularly during playoffs. Opponents direct play towards him to assure a win against the Mavs. He is literally the weak link on the defense. How can you be a high IQ player if you are a moron on defense? If all any player in the NBA did was play one side of the ball, I'm sure they'd have plenty of energy to put on a fabulous offensive show every night.

[@Someguy8822]

That late flop by Bogdonvic is why the basketball gods negated his game winning 3 tonight

[@zoranmarkovic1123]

And Dwight Powell’s two missed free throws last time are the reason the Jazz won the 4th game.

[@15selo]

@@zoranmarkovic1123 he also missed one in crunch time

[@benkendall5562]

I used to be big into basketball when I was a kid but lost interest for a while, Luka singlehandedly made me an NBA fan again, watching him play is so exciting, he commands the court whenever he's on

[@Xiaolongbaokid16]

People don't understand that Luka is great, primarily, because of his superb knowledge and useage of fundamentals. He's fearless and loves great competiton. Fundamentals are always better than raw athleticism.

[@timwormus]

They age better too.

[@rekirenfro8503]

@@timwormus Dirk and Duncan are perfect example.

[@Matfridt]

In every sport I follow, whether it be football (the European one), American football, hockey or basketball, I value game IQ/vision, decision making and being in the right place at the right time over freaky athleticism every day of the week. Sure, won't be as many highlight reel dunks, but those aren't needed either

[@Matfridt]

@Mighty Fire hit the bottle a bit too early this Friday, did we?

[@Matfridt]

@Mighty Fire I can't figure out what you're trying to say, are you completely incapable of forming a coherent sentence? Besides, I'm not American, I'm Norwegian. Can't tell if you're trying to go at me for that or not, you're not making any sense whatsoever

[@SeanCarterCFH]

The best way I can describe Luka is taking the mind and peak court IQ of Magic, and the playstyle of Kobe once he was a veteran and roll it up with a guy who is built like a main battle tank and you have Luka Doncic. He has a slow/fast pace that typically only shows in SEASONED VETERAN ALL STARS like Kobe, Bird, and a few others. They look slow but have all the techniques in the world to put you in a hurt locker, they seemingly have a burst step out of nowhere to get open or blow by their defenders and like prime Magic he knows exactly where his teammates are at during the play, no matter the play. Unlike Magic he has mostly slower players that can't immediately capitalize off of off ball movement the way Showtime Lakers had buuuuuuuut somehow Luka has found a playstyle that turns Dwight Powell into a 20/10 nightly threat... and nobody REMOTELY talks about the fact that Dwight went from taking around 7 jumpers a game with Carlisle and hitting 5 threes and all to never shooting outside the restricted area pretty much 80 percent of the time and SOMEHOW he's more talked about nowadays. It's mind boggling 🥴💯

[@MountainJamz]

I'd ad Larry Bird to the comparison with Luka.

[@gotworc]

Yeah he's got that Magic and LeBron IQ where he can manipulate defenses and knows everything that's going on the court at all times. Those are the only other two guys that I've ever seen that can do that constantly. CP3 sometimes I guess but just not at the same level as Luka, LeBron and Magic

[@nikjakopin9636]

@@gotworc lebron doesn’t belong here

[@gotworc]

@@nikjakopin9636 then you don't know basketball or the NBA

[@ananedic3398]

ok,my English is bad and i try to write corectly.Let me explain everything,i ae loving to watch our players acrose the Atlantic.i am from Serbia and we have 6,8 milion people and my cuontry have strond gens for sport and we are one of tht tallest nation on the earth and we are very good in all team spots basketball,voley ball,handball,watherpolo,football or soccer if you like and the last one is paifull for as becouse we have great players,but no resultatesDjokovic play tennis,but that is solo sport.Doncic is half Serbian,his father is from my region and he was solid basketball player in our competiton,and we like to support Luke because he represent Serbian school of basketball.Imagine team with Boban,Bogdanovic,Bjelica from GS,Poku from OKC Tunder,Jokic...against any republic in Usa with 6 or 7 milion peoples i think we have a chanse.We are ghetto of Europe,becouse of that and less of moneu our sportmans are huongy for sucsess.Why i wrote this all fucking history?I want simple thing,to show you next,We understen this sport exellent and And my oppinion must be correct.Why you Americans in your culture are opssesive whit comparing everything?Luka is uniqe player and you should not compare him whit anybody,also Jokic...They bring somthing new to NBA ,and maybe save the league and this sport.Maybe i am wrong,but 4 or 5 years ago NBA was runing and Shooting.Thank you for understanding culture diferents and too much words.If you want you can see mu team suporrters basketball team Crvena Zvezda or RED Star,atmospher is crayzzzzzze.

[@lukamazing]

in other words, too much speed leads to outbalancing your movement. It looks slow, but luka calling it "Timing"

[@guybartlett9587]

Exactly, and footwork beats speed

[@colinsoder]

Great point about his rebounding and ability to start a transition offense after getting a rebound

[@howardmercadal3920]

The way Luka plays really makes me forget the fact hes still 3 years in the NBA and hes palying like hes been there for a long time. Bet he used a hyperbolic time chamber ti train 😂

[@noisepuppet]

His footwork in the midrange game is incredibly technical. That's how he creates space out of nothing while surrounded by NBA defenders. It's weird to say he's already comparable to Chris Paul in that way, but it's true. This will be an interesting series.

[@sephonvar2129]

It is due to him being one of the few players today who has learned the fundamentals and truly understands the game.

[@lukamazing]

He’s very spectacular player, as we all know. He is one of the best players in the world, He showed himself early on in Europe, and he was a fast study in the NBA, for sure. He’s fun to watch. His skills, his competitiveness, his size, his innate basketball IQ is so impressive.

[@zzzzzz9784]

Bias

[@lukamazing]

@@zzzzzz9784 he's the best prospect when he was 13 years old

[@user-vl1oz3qy6i]

@@zzzzzz9784 not even close he said hes one of the best, when hes clearly the best player in the league 🤦‍♂️ hater

[@user-vl1oz3qy6i]

@@zzzzzz9784 mvp odd leader last year and will be again next season, best player in the second half of the season and best playoff player in the league atm, has way better records than literally anybody his age, you're just bias for some trash player im sure, the only one that compares is jokic

[@user-vl1oz3qy6i]

@@zzzzzz9784 also what are you 12? What kind of cringe name is that

[@mrfranky17]

Luka plays with fundamentals that have been mastered. I love how Luka is giving lights to slower but wiser player styles that helps the team overall and not just in it for the highlights. And the more he perfects his craft, the scarier he’ll get for defenses

[@Kushagra.j]

When it's all said and done Luka will be the GOAT

[@ritacasey1920]

You are a genius....

[@scottrichards3587]

True GOAT was, is, and will be Wilt

[@VoidGamer360]

@@scottrichards3587 haha that was a hilarious joke

[@SmithFamilyUTuber]

@@scottrichards3587 Wilt was an ass, not a goat.

[@ritacasey1920]

@@scottrichards3587 maybe WAS but Luka Magic got it now

[@Matfridt]

People can call him inefficient all they want, the fact of the matter is that Luka hasn't taken an uncontested shot in damn near three years and he's still scoring on decent efficiency + he creates more space and good looks for his teammates than anyone in the entire league. Even on a bad night of shooting, like in game 6 last night, he creates quality, open looks all throughout the game and he's still adjusting after the injury. Looking forward to seeing how he looks VS Phoenix, should be a fun battle if he's marked by Mikal

[@diegochavez679]

Curry is efficient because of the system the warriors play giving him tons of screen spacing and easier shots.hes a specialist Luka is a far better overall player though.

[@lindsaytang1017]

@@diegochavez679 well cause he knows that being a madman running around screens gives wide open shots to teammates, but those don't count as assists, if off ball doubling was counted curry would be way higher on being doubled, and in no way curry gets easier shots, being 6'3 and having defenders do everything to stop you is way harder than what luka gets just by virtue of his drive threat and being taller

[@KingstonHawke]

Sounds like he should learn how to use his team better and get more uncontested shots for himself. Maybe pass the ball, go run around a few screens, and then hit an open jumper.

[@Matfridt]

@@KingstonHawkeThat's because he doesn't have a an all-star caliber team mate. There is no way for that to happen without top quality team mates (aka anyone dangerous enough to never be left open). We've seen in this Suns series that they're having no trouble shutting down everyone on the Mavs except Luka and until that changes, he's going no further than the second round. He's gonna average 40 a game, but Brunson and Dinwiddie are gonna shoot 5/30 from the field on both open and contested looks as it stands. His decision making has been pretty bad, but even then, he's still created plenty of open looks and been left to die on both ends of the floor. Dorian and Bullock, the best defenders on the Mavs, are not doing anything on defensive rotations either, so Luka is left out there having to play CP3 and Booker in ISO and he'll always lose those. He's a serviceable defender, as he's shown in the regular season this year if you've watched the games, but he can't be left on an island while also having to take 30 shots a game because no one else is capable of producing.

[@Matfridt]

@Yaboi LilDepresso I'm just curious, do you have any fundamental understanding of basketball and do you watch the Mavs? I just wanna see something. Depennding on your answer, you're either A) developmantally disabled B) just don't watcch basketball

[@sstielia4089]

No words just admiration for Luka and all Mavs. 💙🇸🇮

[@marcmartel7542]

Lets go! This summer am balling at the parc in mavs uniform number 77!

[@palmtrees9474]

💓🇷🇸☦️

[@TommyTipex]

Cracked me up when he was pumped up after that shot over gobert and his teammates are loving it. Good energy in the mavericks this year I think they'll really bring it to the suns

[@loungekiller]

This aged very well. Luka cooked the Suns. Had an MJ moment

[@axatax57]

We need his leadership and ego, as the Mavs have been soft for years, others will follow, look a Maxi, he starting to push people around under the basket. Once the Mavericks get a big man in the center, we will be 1-3 seed every year. It's coming! And we all know what follows.

[@landshark616]

Espn is so afraid to talk about Luka ..

[@camroncisneros658]

Luka is up next as the best player of this new generation 💯

[@Baylorbetterthanbrown]

Already is son

[@de4ds1ghtcsgo94]

@Gavrilo Princip he’s a taller version of luka

[@de4ds1ghtcsgo94]

@Gavrilo Princip 🤣

[@AllAboutComics77]

After seeing what he did in the Olympics I believe this young man can lead a championship team

[@karabomafa5609]

In terms of talent should end up in the top 10 players of all time.. My issue with him though is does he push himself like he should be? The comes easy to him but does he have that drive to be a perfectionist? Because that's what separates the greats from the legendary. His competition is not Trae, Ja or Tatum.. His competition is Bird, LeBron, MJ, Magic, Kobe etc

[@pewpewTN]

He absolutely has the drive. He left his home & his country as a young teenager to play basketball. He reached the top of Euro basketball at 18 & by 19, was in yet another country, joining the Dallas Mavericks. You don't do that just for shits & gigs. His entire life has been about Basketball. It isn't just a hobby.

[@yoshatabi]

do you not knowing about him? He's one of the most competitive players ever. Not just the NBA but in Basketball in general. Dude started balling since he came out the womb. Not only that but like the other guy said. He's proven plenty of times that he has the drive.

[@Titor1021]

how do you know he's not pushing himself? the guy is ave 30/9/9 what else do you want him to do

[@jayballauer8353]

This is question overall. He entered the season out of shape. He can't do that and be anywhere close to a GOAT...and I think he understands that now.

[@pewpewTN]

@@jayballauer8353 He entered the season out of shape because he got on a plane after a brutal Game 7 & instantly started trying to take the tiny country of Slovenia to the Olympics for the first time ever. He didn't have an off season. Barley had time to rest his body before reporting to camp.

[@joenichols3901]

He will be the best player of all time if management does their part. I watched every LeBron game since his Rookie Year. Luka is better.

[@lastzeit2251]

Joe Nichols 🤡

[@zzz.tyrone]

No u didnt stop lying

[@joenichols3901]

@@lastzeit2251 He is averaging 0.1 less points than MJ in the playoffs which leads the records. He made it to the second round far faster than Lebron. He is the best player of the 2020s without a shadow of a doubt (only competition is Jokic, Embiid and Giannis)

[@KiJu04]

He is already the best player in the league. U need watch more games

[@shaft9000]

Luka wins a single playoff series and suddenly he's a GOAT candidate lol.

[@alecvujic6029]

I want to see jokic and luka play as teammates with 3 shooters, I think the chemistry would be amazing

[@hristijandimitrovski8664]

They will win 5 titles in a row

[@marcmartel7542]

It would be the end of the nba teams. Would be too nasty to watch other team go against them! Bro, Luka cant score, just pass it to the Joker he will. The passing would be out of this world.

[@hristijandimitrovski8664]

@@marcmartel7542 did you really just said Luka can't score?? Goo look at his points average in in regular season. He averages 26,4 points per game, that's higher than James Harden, Kobe Bryant, Shaq, Hakeem etc, etc, etc. In the play offs, he has the 2nd hifjest points per game average in the history after Michael Jordan and averages nearly 33 points per game.

[@marcmartel7542]

​@@hristijandimitrovski8664 Bro do you watch basketball Luka is double teamed evry time he is driving in the paint. Pass it to Jokic in this moment. Evry person knows hes a scorer, get the fuck out of here if you dont understand what i meant!

[@JoelGraves]

Alex, you and your channel are a lot like Luka! Way, way, way more substance over style, flash and highlight level stuff. But you’re both great because you both clearly understand and make the game seem easy and have mastered the basics. It’s a crime you don’t have 10x as many subs. Keep doing what you’re doing as it’s appreciated.

[@zoranmarkovic1123]

Luka can ease take the Mavericks to the finals, only if his teammates endure and don't succumb to pressure.

[@zendariuskincaid5205]

Uh yea his team was up 2-1 before he even played a game

[@de4ds1ghtcsgo94]

@@zendariuskincaid5205 they are ready. It’ll take some luck

[@zendariuskincaid5205]

@@de4ds1ghtcsgo94 lol I think they can get past the suns but not the warriors 😳

[@shaketin]

@@zendariuskincaid5205 I think mavs and warriors would be a pretty cool duel to watch considering how much both teams shoot threes

[@de4ds1ghtcsgo94]

@@zendariuskincaid5205 the warriors have a matchup nightmare vs mavs. Steph can be slowed down. Klay too. Drummond aswell. Poole too. It’s gonna be an insane series. It will depend on who has the most endurance. Dfs is all D 1st bullock has elevated his D to that level. Brunson I s too strong and quick for Steph who lost half a step. 2016 warriors would eat every team for breakfast but now it’s even. Warriors suns matchup goes to warriors but mavs warriors is a coin toss.

[@XiJinPingEatShit]

He's special ... period! Anyone that has different things to say, either you are a hater or don't know your basketball!

[@lastzeit2251]

JP 吃屎 Xi he's not special he's just a good shooter nothing more. Slow as fuck and not a team player. They are losing the next four games. Luca useless.

[@emanuelrichelmy8860]

Great video. Luka is really magic. I've been following him since he played for Real Madrid and he was already a phenomenon. At 18 years. See the videos, who hasn't. He will be the number one in a couple of years (if he isn't already now).

[@cubswincubswinao]

He’s #1 coming from a Gianni’s fan. Giannis is a beast but doesn’t control the game like Luka can

[@strikezoneable]

I love this guy: he has everything-- precision shooting, precision assist, very high IQ, puzzling movement-- simply WOW! I have come to love NBA again because of Luka. IQ, attitude, shooting skills, assists, looks, EVERYTHING.

[@andrewpiszek]

This is the first video of yours I’ve seen and I think you’ve done an amazing job breaking down and explaining details of the game that casual fans don’t always see. Great work and I look forward to watching more!

[@scarboroughshoal3355]

Apparently, luka and cp3 almost have identical style of play. Both are great playmakers, both good scorers, both are not fast and athletic. Both rely on skills and high basketball iq. However, luka has the size wc paul lacks. This series will be great.

[@fangru7294]

I would say that Luka is what Chris Paul would be if he had height... better rebounder and better scorer. With the skill and iq you have everything you need to potentially become the greatest.

[@scarboroughshoal3355]

Nah. Luka will own the suns this series.

[@ryanabate1981]

@@scarboroughshoal3355 the Mavericks have never had an answer to Booker and Ayton

[@aceloco817]

@@ryanabate1981 Phx hasn't played this version of Mavs. They won twice against KP. Dinwiddie is a big factor & Mavs defense is top 3 2nd half of the season....

[@scarboroughshoal3355]

@@ryanabate1981 we'll see how the suns will fare on defense as well. The jazz had no answer for mavs 5 out offense. That's how you counter a team with a legit bigman.

[@hoshxhosh]

His defense has vastly improved. In fact, he has the best defensive rating by a point guard this season. And in the first round of the playoffs, he has the best defense amongst all the other players if I'm reading the stats correctly.

[@EverythingMustG0]

Probably because they put him in the roving LeBron-esque center fielder position so he doesn't have to be an on-ball defender as much. I don't know the numbers but I'd bet he committed less fouls on average this season because of that too.

[@VArsovski10]

@@EverythingMustG0 +1 on the nail Luka's a PG offensively but on defence he plays the 4 position.. Dorian becomes a perimeter player while him and Maxi are rim/side-rim defenders That being said don't think anyone of them can guard Ayton though, have to think of something to deal with it which is quite a shame cause Robin Lopez was simply up for grabs in the buyout tbh

[@carlpatrickragas2159]

@@VArsovski10 Man. I've seen that also. Has tank build enables him to put balance his opponents tho

[@KingstonHawke]

His defense has been trash! He's literally being torched by Booker and Paul.

[@benjaminstanislaus706]

This guy is gonna win a few rings!! A true prodigy!! His love of the games crazy!!🔥🔥

[@TubetakerBHV]

What nobody, especially in the USA, notice is that Luka is playing professional basketball since he is 16 years old. Which means with his 23 years he has already played 7 years on highest level. And beside his immense talent this is the reason while he is making so good decisions in such a young age.

[@Bjs0403]

he started playing in the Europe when he was 13.

[@TheSonictheplayer]

Plus he played in euroleague at that age which is a lot more tactical than the NBA

[@georgetoth1913]

The best comparison I can think of is Larry Legend. He sees and feels the game at a much slower pace than regular players do. Part gift, but mostly playing thousands of hours of basketball.

[@jamiepezoulas4546]

Great breakdown. He will only get better. The dude is on another level.

[@23Eladdo]

He is playing top tier professional basketball since the age of 16. Started at the second best league in the world. This guy is a veteran at the age of 23.

[@KiJu04]

Imagine where were Trae Young and Moranr at his age

[@chasejordan9295]

I like how people say hes not athletic too, you realize "athletic people" trained for that athleticism right? Everyone knows luka plays his way into shape, he's starting to realize its a detriment to his game, if he truly trained for it, im sure he could have atleast a 40" inch vert, most people with proper training can achieve that or near that. He's never trained for it despite playing basketball all his life, he never needed too, but imagine if he did. He's not unathletic, he's quite athletic, hes just untrained for that type of athleticism.

[@zzz.tyrone]

Idk he has elite athletic genes but he trains more for balance and change of speeds then vertical

[@shaft9000]

"Luka w/ a 40" vertical" lol dream on

[@evelineperko6685]

Damn high jump! Why is this more important than smart play without injuries? 🤷🤬

[@yaotmacfrancis]

as a pro you should be in shape once the season starts. Playing into shape reminds me of that fat ass shaq. we all know how his career turned out. once dominant then became a court decoration towards the end. luka's my favorite player, i just wished he took his weight a bit more serious

[@Thomson07]

@@shaft9000 its proven most people can get close to a 40 vert if you train hard enough

[@zeljkokuraica8588]

Luka is complete basketball player...period...the best for long time ahead...cheers from Dubrovnik Croatia 🇭🇷

[@robertj9511]

3:15 That's only true because Michael played some 5 minutes more per game. If you check per 36 or per 100 poss Luca is comfortably ahead of MJ in points, rebounds and assists.

[@robertj9511]

@jumbo Per 100 possessions levels it somewhat. Luka is at 43.5ppg and MJ is at 42.6ppg there. And I'm pretty sure if you play Luka at Michaels minutes, his point totals go up but his eFG drops down to MJ's level. IMHO it's better they play him with reasonable resting time and let him play 45 minutes only when needed.

[@brianjones6465]

Elite fundamentals and decision making. Bird won 3 straight MVPS doing this and was almost 6'10". He would decimate today's league.

[@rokiskufca3180]

If my 🇸🇮wonderboy is healty we are in finals 100%

[@OmegaIL]

He's not in his 4th season, he was rocking it in Europe before NBA, while being a kid against grown men. I know the gap between the leagues is insanely big, but still. He came in a veteran.

[@mr.slim6188]

Right now I'm picking Dallas over Phoenix. The level of ball that the Mavs are playing right now is unmatched by the Suns. It won't be a easy series to win for either team. Mavs in 6

[@evenvarado5392]

In 6? Cmon now you don’t really believe that😂

[@djjr9803]

No way. Suns in 5

[@robertalston4609]

Like LeBron? Dallas over Phoenix? Y'all got jokes!

[@wooskionehundred1788]

In 6? Don’t bet on this The Subs are the better team, and literally are 3-0 against them this year.

[@pemulis808]

The line about feel for the game and Luka having more of it than anyone is the perfect description. It’s like watching someone who can run a changing obstacle course perfectly every single time without dropping a swet.

[@anfzjdxn]

When something is nearly perfect, it looks flawless. Then, when something is flawless, it looks easy and smooth. Lastly, when something looks easy and smooth, it looks slower. Luka isn't slow but he looks slow because of his nearly perfect understanding of Basketball game. He does not have to rush but pace at a necessary speed. There are faster NBA players but that does not mean Luka is slow. He just performs at a speed of necessity. It will be interesting to see who will be the face of NBA after Giannis takes over (Lebron, Curry and KD had their time). Ja Morant vs. Luka Freak of nature vs. Basketball Genius. * In my opinion, Luka had a chance to surpass CP3 for being a Point God.

[@James-ju6yx]

There are no wasted movements in his arsenal. It's like a masterpiece. Not flashy but It's perfect, slow and smooth to look at.

[@aa-qx1cg]

@Mighty Fire what

[@GoldenHeart89]

What I like about him he passes the ball. He doesn't hog it like some ball players. If he sees a good oppurtunity he goes for it. Plus he doesn't showboat, his skill speaks for himself. His IQ for the court is very high.

[@whocares3201]

Actualy in the 3 games vs the jazz, Luka has been a pretty damb elite defense. He locked everything up. Mitchel could rearly get past him on switches, he absolutly ate up Bogi and even held his own in the paint against gobert. Also he has a good feel for when to just straight up disrespect the guy he is guarding (like Oneal this series) at the 3pt line as it takes their confidence. I know it has only been 3 games but even his advanced defensive stats must be pretty elite in those 3.

[@lindsaytang1017]

The jazz are just ass no cap, but yeah his defense was like 5x better

[@whocares3201]

@@lindsaytang1017 agree on that. They couldnt hit shit after they started playing defense due to exhaustion, expecialy bogi. Guess they are just not used to playing 2 way as in regular season Gobert covers most of it even when others dont try.

[@mickelin100]

ops..like oneal...thats big words..but ok...we have to wait and see

[@skdkskdk]

I stopped following NBA closely in the previous century, but I can see there's something up with Luka, presumably defenders can train to push him harder, and either break his spell or set him up for greatness

[@cantlin7789]

Luka is GOAT allredy

[@earlybird3668]

Luka is my favorite player. GS Warriors are my team, and they will in the Championship this year.

[@Avian07]

At this point if you still not see him as a top 5 player right now. You're just a straight up hater. There is nothing objective you can say that he is not up there in the MVP talks. Just admit you're a hater and lets move on with our lives.

[@republicoftexas4651]

Or I'll call him the white boy James Harden. Get off his nuts. He's not a player that's going to drag a team to a chip. Get real. He's so out of shape he's embarrassed to trade jerseys on the court. Maybe when he gets serious about his physicality hell win something. No hate. It's called being 49 years old and a non f'ing casual.

[@Avian07]

@@republicoftexas4651 Ignoring that poor excuse of a troll lol.

[@wooskionehundred1788]

I’d say top 10. I’ll take Giannis, Jokic, Curry, Bron and Durant over him. He’s not top 5 yet imo

[@el_deadly5870]

Luka was born to be a legend on the court! He is only half way to the top and already is talked about as if he is (which he is).

[@tabei2711]

Imagine Luka and jokic on the same team, they would be the best duo of all time

[@jlangful]

Oh please basketball Gods, make this happen

[@thomasbebn2781]

I think giannis is a better fit with Lucas but jokic luka will be funnier.

[@notheotherklaus]

The basket IQ of this young Slovenian player is on another level! Wonderful to see. It will also attract new fans to the game, I think.

[@jayadyrumengan6315]

Mavs can reach NBA final this season

[@steveclapper5424]

He seriously reminds me of when the Bulls acquired Jordan and not much else. His injury turned out to be a happy accident allowing the team to completely gel before stepping back in.

[@manuelferreira9073]

Luka magic ✨🪄

[@mikethehammer360]

He is the Messi of basketball. Amazing footwork, patience, vision, pace. A 2nd star, and this team should win a chip. As long as they hold onto Jalen Brunson who is literally Kyle Lowry with a better stroke.

[@venturamack]

Luka already is the goat and history will prove me right

[@Retroman25]

Goat of what?

[@xViolentDeathx]

The thing that made Luka a cut above the rest is the fact that he had ton of experience as a young player, he played in Euroleague before entering the league. That adds up to his experience as a player

[@damion1121]

I think the euro league has so much more contact too so that made him much tougher than the prospects coming from college.

[@GenerationalNBA]

Luka is slow and unathletic but when he needs too he can turn it up a few levels

[@AlexHoops]

For sure!

[@solutionrecruiter7130]

Very untrue

[@richboyjullianhicks6604]

2stls 2blks I’m just saying 🤷🏾‍♂️

[@bastiandeininger6654]

I don't know man. He is not super fast but so controlled and seems very strong. Athletic does not necessarily mean superfast...

[@devinmcconnell7010]

Luka has a 42 inch vert that's pretty athletic, people act like he's not athletic he's just 6'7 and built big 230-250. Boys athletic he's just not slim athletic like 99% of NBA players

[@solutionrecruiter7130]

Luka is a phenomenalnathlete...He played against grown men while he was still in a teens frame...He learned to perfect that...Now hes grown and is as big as everyone else so hes just powering and finessing his way around the court...really a perfect development process for a player...

[@ZhangMaza]

Luka can take any team to champions, He is that good.

[@Sillysoft]

Then how come he hasnt?

[@ZhangMaza]

@@Sillysoft time will tell later he is still a kid basically

[@jayballauer8353]

@@Sillysoft Because he's only now understood the level of commitment required to win in the NBA.

[@waterdog9500]

I love his passion for winning. He has that kobe and mj killer attitude.

[@robbnoble1509]

After last year's playoffs and again after they went up 2-1 on the Jazz this year you had people claiming the Mavs were better without Luka because he is too ball dominant like Harden in Houston. 😂😂😂 Where Harden would get his assist numbers by dribbling out the shot clock and making a last second pass, Luka actually uses that time to manipulate the defense and get his teammates really clean looks. The difference between Luka and Harden is that one uses his high basketball IQ to make the best play, and the other does his best to manipulate the referees and pad his stats. Anyone who has actually watched games of both and not just listened to the media can see this plain as day.

[@cukuceral]

luke is a full vet, hes been playing pro since 16 years of age experience with ability is rare to see tbh

[@atakankucukler8631]

i beleive jordan is the goat and always will be, but luka is the best offensive player ive ever seen already. he is like late-prime kobe and magic johnson combined. and he played these playoff games against kawhi and pg who are considered the best defensive wings in the leage. he mocked kawhi in his second year in the league. incredible

[@paulshepherd9528]

...like the man said....his tempo is just amazing. It is a dance with him, and he almost always leads. He is fun to watch. Hope he stays healthy...

[@andrewehrmantraut4742]

For whatever reason, Dallas has never landed a big time free agent. Hopefully Luka can change that! Who wouldn't want to play with him?! If you're a shooter, you're going to be guaranteed open looks. If you're a big that can pick and roll, you're going to get lobs for days! This team is young, enthusiastic, and fun af to watch. Guys like DP, Maxi, and Green certainly aren't top tier talents, but they bust their ass night in and night out and hustle. A top tier 4 or 5 would absolutely dominate in Dallas.

[@shaft9000]

Few want to move to where JFK got assassinated, I guess.

[@lando9670]

It's crazy when you look at Powells stats when Luka wasn't in, he was almost a offensive non factor, but when Luka comes in, he scores more in one game then he did the whole series

[@dieseldog00]

Mavs need to get someone else who can lob to the cutter. Almost nobody else on the Mavs can do that.

[@aguac4te]

Yes, he could lead the Mavs to the finals this year

[@Retroman25]

No he can't.

[@cursin]

Maybe in a few more years but now is no. He’s only 3 years into the nba and needs more experience

[@joegurt2957]

NOPE

[@KiJu04]

People are still underestimate Luka. U definitely envy because the most unique players in the nba are actually from europe like jokic and doncic not from us. The rest of the world team would easily beat usz team in nba.

[@KiJu04]

Us*

[@micahclawrence]

He has great physical gifts that he barely has to use lol. It’s what’s between the ears. He is literally a basketball genius.

[@JuliusSpin]

Good to see so many young teams have it together now. Mavs are great. Timbers and Grizz are great. Pelicans, Hawks, Cavs and Hornets too. Yknow, the Nets vs Celtics made me think how the new gen is here to possibly take over already. Realize that only The Warriors, Lakers and Nets harbor older players. If we set CP aside, all the other star players are young. With Giannis being an old man at 27. :O KD, Bron & Steph are basically the only elite dependable veterans left. And soon only KD and Steph. I hope the Nets get it together cause that movie-like legendary matchoff in their last years would be so epic. :,) Like a modern day respect-but-battle -to-the-end bird/magic feeling. Footnote: I forgot about Butler and Derozan. Who Have Steph and KD's age as well. Embiid and Jokic are 27 and 28. (fantasy: Jokic didnt seem happy at all right? Like Donovan. They both seemed very unhappy. As did KD. Imagine Jokic being on the Nets and Kyrie going to the Nuggets? And Donovan going to The Knicks for Randle and 1 or 2 extra's. It seems like a simple trade but the New York shows would be epic again. KD can finally breath without having to carry a whole team. Same goes for Jokic. And Donovan can build a dynamic force around him with guys like Barnet, that actually suit the style and character of both. Plus Jokic as a leader in the center (Drummond and Sharpe as backup), KD as the Ace PG with Dragic as backup, Seth/Mills/Harris/Thomas as SG. And Claxton/Edwards as PF. And Brown/Duke as SF. That sounds like the powerhouse they always wanted to be but never were when they lacked balance. It could work but their management has to realize: its not an allstar game. If you cant hold your own, if your not consistent, if you cant do it on both sides. You lose. Might have a 60 game but you will never get a ring like that. I would give the Nuggets Kyrie and Ben, even throw in some future drafts, and even something extra if needed. All for one dependable big man that can hold his own on both sides. Its all that the Nets need. And if one man can fill that role like a Lopez or a Shaq its Jokic. Imo he is the best walking tank in the league.)

[@mesothelioma2008]

This Bogdanović flop lagged hard than a call of duty server 🤣 2:38

[@Charon58]

Doncic is a great player and so fun to watch…but arguably the greatest rookie season ever? Wilt had 37 ppg and 27rpg and 3 apg while blocking ungodly numbers of shots that were unfortunately not counted in that era.

[@JuiCe5248]

5:36 luka travels with a ref staring at him lol

[@mr.slim6188]

If Dallas can get past the Sun's then they absolutely can make the NBA Finals. A Mavs/Celtics Finals would be very interesting

[@AS6killer]

Lol. One dude ain't taking them past the sun's. Especially with there brand of basketball. Suns are a team, mavs soley rely on brunson and Luke. Suns in 5.

[@mr.slim6188]

@@AS6killer what? Dallas is much more likely to pass and rotate the ball around for the best shot no matter who it is. Did you not watch the Dallas/Utah series? Who is going to contain Luka? Sure ain't going to be CP3 or Booker they are just to damn small. It will be a good series that will go atleast 6 games.

[@AS6killer]

@@mr.slim6188 mikal will most likely guard luka, won't shut him down but will definitely slow him down. Luka led the league in usage rate, meaning when he is on the floor, the offense basically runs through him. Dallas faced the Utah jazz who blew the mist 10 pt leads in the 4th. They're now playing the 64 win PHX suns with more experience, more talent, better coach, too 5 offense and defense in the league. Series over in 5, 6 at most.

[@Red-qk7hv]

It’s gonna be Mavs & Heat for the 3rd time again if they make it.

[@goatP4NDA]

@@AS6killer I dont think that Monty will leave Mikal to his fate by assigning him to Luka. They’ll probably defend Luka with Mikal and Crowder at all times. If you dont double Luka, you are cooked no matter who you are.

[@brandstradamus]

When it's all said and done. Without no major injuries, Luka will be top 5 all time. GUARANTEED 🏀🏀

[@BA-od9km]

Why nobody is not talking about his performance is because people are biased. He comes from a small country and his surname ends with "ic"

[@PhilboTheGoat]

That is just false, not everything in life has to do with race. Everybody is talking about Giannis, Jokic, and Embiid, who all come from small countries and one of their names also ends with „ic“. So I really don’t get your point

[@BA-od9km]

@@PhilboTheGoat Double rules. you don't get it because you are Schumacher and probably never lived in the darkness like many athletes or their families did who I am referring to. It's a historic and therefore cultural thing and this is why you don't get my point. Absolutely, not everyone is like this , but many such sportsmen are wrongly classified by the average Joe because of the politically systematic media out there. Those with "ic" must work 3 times harder to get respect in todays society. Such is this life and world we live in, like it or not. Also, I admire all athletes, especially the ones from smaller countries more because I realise their sacrifices and budgets for trainings before they became special. I coach athletes in a certain sport and I don't assume anything before I say it!

[@terrylucaspoetrycoach4489]

The Warriors took care of him quite nicely, thank you very much!

[@slightlyunhinged]

They don’t like to talk about it b/c “Luka can’t get out of the 1st round,” except NOW they can’t use that lazy narrative anymore :)

[@HookedonChronics]

That's how it always is, he just needs to prove it on the court to cement his legacy. We saw it with Dirk

[@randybooker16]

The man team literally won without him twice bruh we not bout to act like he carrying cut it out

[@katana-uf4yn]

@@randybooker16 Cmon man,,they won cause they shot absolutely ridicilous on 3 pointers those games,,they had great 2 games stretch nothing to take from it,,but if they played 7 game series without luka they would not win,,if you think otherwise u are capping hard

[@sin842]

@@randybooker16 He carried them vs the clippers. And Bruns leveled up this playoffs and the whole team stepped up. You clearly don't watch BB to say Luka doesn't carry his team.

[@axiesting4490]

@@randybooker16 You're a casual clown of a fan then. Brunson was unplayable the 2 series they went against Clippers the past 2 seasons. He carried his team to 6 games on first year and even 7 games on the second one. Go watch the last playoffs against Clips had Luka gotten some help they wouldve won that, he was gassed tf out by game 6 and game 7.

[@nwospidey5782]

Luka been put the league on notice already. We're just waiting to see more; we're expecting more because he's that dangerous.

[@mouse11011]

I'd say absolute best case scenario for Luka is becoming a legitimate GOAT candidate. For that to happen he's gotta play amazing for the rest of his career and also Mavs are gonna have to do a lot of things right around him.

[@kwoktony121]

Luka actually relies on his size. Don't forget he's a 6'7 point guard. This height advantage allows him to make passes even Chris Paul would be envy. Also with his years as a pro back in Europe, he already knows how to use his strength to absorb contents from some of the elite defenders. He might not be as powerful as LeBron but you can always see him bulldoze his way on a drive or post-up. My biggest concern is that he has some very slow footsteps on defense. He's actually quite good on confronting bigs and box-out and rebounds, but he still has trouble when facing those small quick guards. If they luckily pass the Suns, he'd get exposed against Jordon Poole.

[@KiJu04]

He playing as a shooting guard not pg. Brunson is the first option. Judging by your view Lebron is also a pg and he's like 6'8

[@Aoughi]

Teams like to play against Doncic lol. He takes every possession and every shot bad his teammates are off game.

[@alexthegreat23]

I see him being a top 2 basketball player of all time.

[@felixjr9890]

My heart says mavs in six or seven. But my mind says suns in 5 or 6.

[@gonzalo8545]

Dallas in six ,they are very good in close games and very difficult to beat away and at home, but if cp3 plays this series like yesterday, mavs will have a problem

[@aaroncorral1327]

Same heart says Mavs in 6 or 7 but I think sun's will win this series. But here hoping for a different outcome lol

[@imablindunicorn6878]

5:27 My dudes already shrugging like “what am I supposed to do?”

[@lalremruatpuiarenthlei4665]

He does rely on his size, that is why he can see over smaller player and make the pass or bully them inside the paint. He is a mismatch for almost every guard in the league he is bigger than most of the them and hence he can't guard smaller and faster guards. Size is very imp inn the NBA

[@JonathanWoodall]

Fr I was watching old videos of Kimbo Slice street fighting. Look at Kimbo’s upper body. Luka came in to the league weighing more than Kimbo 😂 his thighs are tanks. It’s where his step backs, post moves, and drives gain their power.

[@de4ds1ghtcsgo94]

He’s also fast enormously gh and strong enough to get past bigger guys and keeping them there.

[@MarcellusAugustusGermanicus]

Luka plays like a european central midfielder, like Luka Modrić. His understanding of angles and rhythm of a play is very reminiscent of that.

[@almightylambo9540]

Luka is like a young Lebron with the way he effects the game and dismantles opposing defenses. probably even has the edge over him if you compare them at 23

[@E_Static]

Yeah he's the slow, out of shape, weak defensive version of LeBron.

[@almightylambo9540]

@@E_Static i bet you were just waiting for the warriors to win game 2 so you can send this lmao

[@E_Static]

@@almightylambo9540 Nope. Game 2 didn't change my opinion nor brazen me to post it. Win or lose, he is not equal to or better than Lebron when you compare them at the same point in their careers.

[@almightylambo9540]

@@E_Static im a Lebron fan and i can say we can agree to disagree, i think through the first. 3 years in comparison Luka was better. Lebron was great but if you built a wall it was very hard still for him to play around it and he hadnt yet realized himself defensively Year 4 alone theres a solid argument but i still think Luka played with more maturity at than Lebron at that point in time. Theyre both still top 3 23 years olds all time its not a big gap either way you go

[@E_Static]

@@almightylambo9540 I'm judging Luka based on his years of playing as a pro. He has seven years of experience at the pro level at the age of 23. Comparing Lebron at his seventh pro season vs Luka it's not a question of who was better. Lebron was the best player in the world by that time. And while Luka is supremely gifted offensively, his defense is subpar. Lebron was considered the best two way player at that time and was elite offensively as he was defensively.

[@marekmietelski1135]

Luka = new philosophy in basketball. He is scary IQ player. I would like to see in one team Luka and Joker. That would be revolution.

[@MikeJones-fz2mt]

Luka is OVER RATED!!!Stop hyping him up. 1.he dribbles for 20 f**king sec then he keeps jumping every time to pass the damn ball 2. He cannot play DEFENSE!!!!!!! Been a Dallas fan since 99-2000. ✌️

[@thehorsecockexpress1068]

32,10 and 7 atm.. get the fuk out of here. Dallas are trash, Luka is a one man team. Give Luka a Booker and lights out nba

[@cristiancastro5249]

Why does he jump when he passes lmao. Noticed that too lol

[@radamesortiz4499]

He has incredible fundamentals. He reminds me of Lary Bird.

[@cekmate20]

He reminds me of the 80’s Celtics rolled into one guy. Footwork of Mchale, shooting of Bird, attitude of Ainge, and underrated defense of DJ.

[@hafizanbo6420]

Luka and Caruso. I love watching both of them

[@AGIMJONES]

That was a beautiful breakdown. I can tell you played the game and studied it to this point in clarity. I agree with you on LUKA. He’s The one that will win all the championships to carry on the torch of the league