The Dallas Mavericks came away with a 105-101 win at American Airlines Center in Game 3 of their second-round playoff series against the OKC Thunder. Following the game, Luka Doncic opened up on his physical condition after engaging in a few rough plays on Saturday.
Mavs Superstar Gets Candid on Injuries and Physicality of Game 3
In the post-match press conference, Doncic reflected on various aspects of the game and his team’s performance. Doncic was asked about his ability to play through physical challenges, given the stretch of injury he has been dealing with.
“I think I’m battling. I’m glad we got the win and, you know, just trying to battle out there,” Luka Doncic said.
Doncic acknowledged the difficulties but expressed his determination to battle through for the team’s sake.
When questioned about his injuries, Luka Doncic mentioned hurting his knee again during the game. However, he stressed prioritizing the team’s goals over personal discomfort.
“In the last play, I split two defenders. Obviously, nobody touched me, and, you know, hurt my knee again. But just trying to battle out there, man. We got the win. That’s all that matters.”
Doncic also discussed the challenges of the tight playoff schedule. He mentioned the need for rest and recovery between games.
Luka was then inquired about a hard fall he took during a jump ball call, and if he had hurt his lower back or tailbone. He responded:
“Yeah, I was straight on my back. But I mean, right now, that’s the least of my problems. That just hit. I’ll get better in two days.”
Despite the concern, he downplayed the injury, stating that it’s currently the least of his worries. He expressed confidence in his ability to recover within two days. Luka is averaging 27 points, 9.3 rebounds, and 8.7 assists in the playoffs.
Luka Doncic Expresses Subtle Displeasure with Match Officiating
During the press conference, a reporter noted Luka’s frequent interactions with the referees during the game. They asked if he felt the officiating was consistent with regular season games.
Luka responded with a succinct “I don’t think so,” implying dissatisfaction with the officiating in playoff games compared to the regular season.
When asked if Luguentz Dort’s defensive play was bothering him, Luka responded casually.
“It’s fine. You know, they just gotta be better. I mean, just call the same fouls on both ends.”
The Mavs superstar subtly hinted at frustration with the refereeing, suggesting that fouls should be called consistently on both ends of the court. Luka also praised Kyrie Irving’s contributions. He mentioned Irving’s ability to facilitate plays and make clutch shots, especially in the fourth quarter. Irving has been crucial to the Mavs’ success averaging 23 points, 5.4 rebounds, and 4.8 assists. He is also playing some of the best defense of his career.
The Mavericks have already gained a 2-1 lead in the series. Despite being up in the second-round tie, Luka remained cautious about the team’s playoff outlook. He pointed out the pressure of the playoffs and stressed the importance of staying grounded and focused on the task at hand.
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