Dallas Mavericks: Will this Season be the Year of Luka Doncic?
After helping the Dallas Mavericks reach the Western Conference finals, Luka Doncic took no time off this summer. Reports indicate that the three-time all-star has been working out with Slovenian trainer Anze Macek. Summer photos showed a slimmer, in shape Doncic.
Has the Dallas Mavericks star done enough to be placed in the MVP conversation?
Analysts and voters seem to think so. In a recent episode of Jalen and Jacoby, ex-NBA player Jalen Rose spoke about the progress he’s seen in Doncic.
"“You see videos of him training, actually training, and so based on that do not be surprised if he balls the way he did last year in the playoffs,” said Rose."
The former most improved player elaborated on how a conditioned, in shape Doncic, has the best shot at winning the MVP award.
When referencing Doncic, he said that “He’s in pole position for me, I don’t know what Vegas said.”
So what did Vegas say?
They agree with Rose’s statement. Betters have Doncic tied with Joel Embiid with the best odds of winning the award. Over the past two seasons, the Mavs star has been the leading MVP candidate for the award.
This season proves to be different though, as Doncic showcased his talents during the NBA playoffs. After coming back from injury, the Slovenian star came back to help Dallas beat the Utah Jazz, for the team’s first series win since 2011. Against the Phoenix Suns, he elevated his game a notch averaging 32.6 points on 47.6 percent shooting. In a must-win game 7, Doncic went off scoring 35 points on 63.2 percent shooting. From behind the arc, he shot 54.5 percent.
However, not everyone agrees with the notion. In ESPN‘s recent predictions, Doncic has the second-best odds, with Milwaukee Bucks forward Giannis Antetokounmpo leading the way.
The biggest factor will be: Can Doncic start the season on fire?
During October, Doncic averaged 22.5 points on 42 percent shooting. This was his worst month of basketball, as he admitted to being out of shape and unprepared. He eventually elevated his game but fell short of the coveted MVP award.
Is the Mavericks’ offseason a failure? It depends on who you ask. dark. Next
With a slimmer physique, fans everywhere are beginning to take notice. If Luka can overcome last season’s struggles, look for the Mavs man to take his game to the next level.