Dereck Lively II, when asked about Grant Williams’ comments regarding playing with Luka Doncic, responded with a subtle yet impactful remark. Williams had insinuated that playing for the Hornets was about playing for the name on the front of the jersey, not the one on the back, a statement widely interpreted as a jab at Doncic’s ball-dominant style with the Mavericks.
“Just going out there, why would I want to shoot a 3 if I give the ball to Luka and Kai, then they’re going to knock down a step back 3 or a side step 3?”
“Having players like that, you just have to play basketball. Not going out there, focusing on the name on the back of your jersey, focus on the name on the front of your jersey.” (6:49)
In response, Lively maintained a diplomatic stance, suggesting that while playing with talented individuals like Doncic and Kyrie Irving, one simply needed to focus on playing basketball, emphasizing team cohesion over individual accolades. However, buried within his response was a sneaky acknowledgment of Williams‘ remarks.
Lively’s measured reply hinted at the underlying tension surrounding Williams’ comments, acknowledging the veiled critique while also redirecting the conversation back to the importance of team unity and shared success. By addressing the issue without directly confronting or escalating it, Lively demonstrated maturity and restraint, refusing to be drawn into a potential controversy.
Moreover, Lively’s response underscored the nuanced dynamics of professional sports, where players must navigate complex interpersonal relationships and media scrutiny with finesse. Rather than fueling speculation or engaging in a war of words, Lively chose to rise above the fray, focusing instead on the bigger picture of collective achievement and camaraderie.
He has been a great pickup for the Mavericks as his impact has been undeniable. Lively has averaged 9.2 points and 7.8 rebounds on an insane 73.6% from the field and will be looking to continue to contribute to the Mavericks as they battle for a playoff spot.
There Is A Reason Why Luka Doncic Is So Ball Dominant
Luka Doncic’s ball-dominant style on the court isn’t just a matter of preference or ego—it’s rooted in his exceptional ability to create scoring opportunities for his teammates and himself.
This season, Doncic is putting up career-best numbers across the board, averaging an impressive 34.2 points per game while shooting efficiently at 49.2% from the field, 37.5% from beyond the arc, and 77.7% from the free-throw line. Additionally, he’s dishing out a career-high 9.8 assists per game, showcasing his playmaking prowess.
One of the key metrics highlighting Doncic’s impact as a facilitator is his ranking in unrealized assist opportunities. Despite being third in the league with 417 unrealized assist opportunities—an indication of potential assists that don’t result in made shots or fouls—Doncic’s passes consistently generate high-quality scoring chances.
In fact, the looks he creates for his teammates boast the highest shot quality in the entire player-tracking era, underscoring his unparalleled ability to put his teammates in positions to succeed.
For players on Doncic’s team, receiving a pass from him means having the best opportunity in the NBA to score. Whether it’s an open three-pointer or a wide-open dunk, Doncic’s vision, precision, and basketball IQ ensure that his teammates get the highest-percentage scoring opportunities possible. This not only speaks to Doncic’s individual brilliance but also highlights his commitment to elevating the play of those around him.
In essence, Doncic’s ball dominance isn’t merely about controlling the game—it’s about orchestrating offensive efficiency and maximizing scoring potential for his team. By consistently delivering pinpoint passes and creating high-quality looks for his teammates, Doncic cements his status as one of the most impactful playmakers in the NBA, demonstrating why he’s deserving of the ball in his hands.
“Thank you for being a valued reader of Fadeaway World. If you liked this article, please consider following us on Google News. We really appreciate your support.”
