Luka Doncic Andrew Dieb-USA TODAY Sports

Mavericks’ Luka Doncic had the best response when asked about Jaylen Brown breaking his ankles

By Jeff Smith | Last updated Jan 23, 2024 8:58 AM ET

Monday night's NBA action proved to be one of the most memorable regular season slates in recent memory, and it featured a few of the league's top players putting on a show that was complete with monster scoring performances. But amid the huge scoring totals, which included Joel Embiid pouring in an incredible 70 points and Karl-Anthony Towns going off for 62, one specific play from the Boston Celtics vs. Dallas Mavericks game grabbed the attention of NBA fans.

During the second quarter, Jaylen Brown was defended by Luka Doncic and sent the Mavericks star to the floor with an impressive behind-the-back move, which resulted in the Celtics guard draining a wide-open jumper.

Jaylen Brown stops on a DIME and hits the pull up

Celtics-Mavs | Live on the NBA App
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— NBA (@NBA) January 23, 2024

The play drew plenty of reactions from NBA fans across the league, and after the game, even Doncic had to toss some praise in Brown's direction for the impressive move.

“I can’t lie — that was really nice. I was on the floor praying he didn't make it, but he made it. So it's a whole highlight," Doncic said of Brown's move, as ESPN's Tim MacMahon revealed.

Credit to Doncic for taking it like a pro, even after the Mavericks ultimately fell 119-110 at home to the Celtics. The 24-year-old finished the night with an eye-opening triple-double, pouring in 33 points with 18 rebounds and 13 assists.

Brown had a big night of his own, tallying 34 points with four assists and three rebounds, but teammate Jayston Tatum stole the show a bit by pouring in 39 points with a double-double that included 11 rebounds.

Jeff Smith

Jeff Smith has extensive experience as a sports writer and editor, including stops at ESPN, FOX Sports, CBS Sports, USA TODAY SMG, and Heavy. Jeff's passion for sports content starts and finishes with writing and he's grateful to be able to work in that field on a daily basis.

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