Post the Dallas Mavericks vs Minnesota Timberwolves, Luka Doncic addressed the media after his tremendous efforts in the game. His game was absolutely top notch, as the Mavericks beat table toppers Timberwolves in a narrow 115-108 victory.
Doncic scored 34 points which included 5 three pointers, had 6 rebounds and 8 assists. On top of that, his ability to defend the post has been commendable. He was effectively able to shut down Karl-Anthony Towns once he was assigned to mark him. Towns had a great game with 24 points, 7 rebounds and 1 assist in the 27 minutes he played, but he struggled whenever Doncic matched up against him.
Luka Doncic with the spin-dribble into a TOUGH stepback three 🎯pic.twitter.com/LdcaUuheR0
— ClutchPoints (@ClutchPoints) January 8, 2024
Luka Doncic shines both offensively and defensively
On being asked about his ability to defend the post, Luka Doncic commented “Because I’m strong. People don’t think that. But I have one of the most powerful legs in the NBA, I think.”
"Because I'm strong. People don't think that. But I have one of the most powerful legs in the NBA, I think."
You heard the man. #MFFL | @dallasmavs on @BallySports 📺 pic.twitter.com/pcfSzr2h3N
— Bally Sports Southwest (@BallySportsSW) January 8, 2024
Jason Kidd said that Luka Doncic doesn't just want to be known as a one-way player.
Said that he wants to take the challenge of playing tough defense.
He definitely has done that as of late.#MFFL
— Noah Weber (@noahweber00) January 8, 2024
Towns is almost 4 inches taller than Luka Doncic and despite the height and reach advantage, Doncic was able to perform his best because of Town’s lack of agility compared to smaller guards. Doncic’s defensive ability hasn’t been hailed in good regards since he struggles against opponents with a smaller stature. His off the ball defence is a particular weak point due to his own lack of agility and speed.
Even though Doncic’s defensive efforts were the highlight of the day, Doncic was overall troublesome for Towns. In the offensive front, he was creating a lot of problems for Towns and forced him to commit fouls. The 34 points scored by him speaks for his offensive abilities. His teammate Kyrie Irving had a great game too with 35 points.
Luka Doncic tonight:
34 PTS – 6 REB – 8 ASTKyrie Irving tonight:
35 PTS – 8 REB – 5 ASTThis duo. 🔥 pic.twitter.com/oph4eaRIr6
— Hoop Central (@TheHoopCentral) January 8, 2024
Luka Doncic is having an extremely delightful season with the Mavericks. He has averaged 33.7 points per game, 9.2 assists per game and 8.2 rebounds per game. With scoring and creativity oozing, his abilities under the net has been great too.
Luka Doncic recently missed the match against Portland Trail Blazers with some minor problem with his ankle. He set the stage ablaze upon his return and he would look to extend his exploits against the Memphis Grizzlies.
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