The Dallas Mavericks have secured their playoff berth thanks to the effective chemistry between Luka Doncic and Kyrie Irving. Doncic has been especially effective on all fronts as the main facilitator and shot creator for Jason Kidd’s roster.
As the season winds down and they prepare to play against the Los Angeles Clippers in the first round of the 2024 playoffs, a known NBA head coach and current analyst gives his two cents on how great Luka Magic has been for the Mavs throughout the 2023-24 season.
Stan Van Gundy praises Dallas Mavericks’ Luka Doncic as the best offensive player he’s seen
Stan Van Gundy has been in and around the NBA since 1995, so he’s seen players like Michael Jordan, Kobe Bryant, and LeBron James do their thing on the court over the years.
“I think the best offensive player now that I’ve ever seen is Luka Doncic…as strictly an offensive player I’ve ever seen.” Van Gundy said of the 25-year-old on the Dan LeBatard Show.
For him to claim that Luka Doncic is the best offensive player he’s ever seen in his life is surprising, but he’s standing by his claims. He argues that he “wouldn’t have said this one-and-a-half, two years ago” if it weren’t for one major improvement Luka has made to his game.
“He’s become a more consistent shooter from range,” Van Gundy explains. “His range is incredible and he’s been very efficient shooting the ball.”
His three-point shot did take a huge leap this season. From only making 34% of his long-range attempts last season, he’s shooting at a much more impressive 38% clip on more attempts.
The Dallas Mavericks love what Doncic has been doing on the hardwood this season. He’s currently averaging a near triple-double of 33.9 points, 9.2 rebounds, and 9.8 assists on 49% shooting and 79% from the free-throw line.
His most recent outing—an Oscar Robertson-esque display against Miami—even solidified his position as one of the favorites to win MVP.
While they will be facing a tough opponent in the first round, the Mavs don’t have any reason to worry with Doncic taking charge.
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