Dallas Mavericks’ sensation Luka Doncic has been making waves ever since he stepped onto the NBA hardwood. Known for his incredible skills and insights on the game, when Doncic speaks, people listen. Recently, during his stint in Abu Dhabi for the Mavericks’ preseason games against the Minnesota Timberwolves, he was posed with the ever-persistent basketball question: Who is the greatest player of all time?
“It’s MJ.” (11:00)
This declaration might come as a surprise to many, especially given Doncic’s well-documented admiration for Los Angeles Lakers superstar LeBron James. Fans and basketball enthusiasts will recall the heartfelt story from Doncic’s rookie season. In one of his first NBA games against the Lakers, a visibly excited Doncic managed to secure LeBron’s jersey post-match, a moment that showcased his deep respect and admiration for the contemporary NBA icon.
Considering this history, Doncic’s recent endorsement of Michael Jordan as the greatest ever has caught the attention of many. While his reverence for LeBron is apparent, his acknowledgment of Jordan’s unparalleled legacy in the sport speaks volumes.
It’s essential to recognize that the debate over the title of ‘GOAT’ in basketball is subjective, varying from player to player and fan to fan. Every individual has criteria, metrics, and personal experiences that shape their viewpoint. For Luka, despite his personal affection for LeBron, it seems that Michael Jordan’s impact on the game, his championships, and perhaps his influence on global basketball culture has solidified MJ’s position as the greatest in his eyes.
Jason Kidd Includes Luka Doncic And Kyrie Irving In His All-Time Starting 5
In a recent chat with Fadeaway World, Jason Kidd, the legendary point guard and current head coach of the Dallas Mavericks, divulged his picks for the all-time NBA starting lineup. Notably, his list featured Luka Doncic and Kyrie Irving, two standout players, but their inclusion in an all-time list is bound to stir some debate, considering that is probably under heavy bias.
The decision to pick Doncic, one of Kidd’s current proteges, sheds light on the profound respect he holds for the young Mavericks’ superstar. Luka, with his exceptional court vision, skills, and knack for delivering under pressure, echoes facets of Kidd’s illustrious playing days.
Jason Kidd names his all-time starting five.
Stephen Curry
Kyrie Irving
Luka Doncic
LeBron James
Shaquille O'Neal
📝: @IshaanBhatta pic.twitter.com/cfhq6s8sJF
— Fadeaway World (@FadeawayWorld) October 5, 2023
Kyrie Irving’s inclusion by Kidd was another shocker despite Irving’s dazzling ball-handling skills, creativity, and his unforgettable championship-winning shot for the Cleveland Cavaliers in 2016.
While the nod to two current players both from his own team, might seem biased to some, it truly reflects Kidd’s perspective on the game. He seems to value contemporary brilliance alongside time-tested greatness. Through his selections, as shared with Fadeaway World, Kidd offers a unique blend of the NBA’s past and present, shining a light on the game’s continuous evolution.
Mavericks May Be In Trouble
The Dallas Mavericks’ lackluster start in their preseason opener against the Minnesota Timberwolves raises concerns about the team’s readiness for the upcoming season. Beginning the game on the back foot, the Mavericks allowed the Wolves to secure a 1-11 lead. The first-quarter rout saw the Mavericks outscored 19-37. While they did manage to outscore the Wolves in the succeeding quarters, the initial deficit proved too significant, especially with stars Luka Doncic and Kyrie Irving benched in the second half.
Doncic’s performance was a bright spot, showcasing his prowess with an impressive 25 points in just the first half. His effortless skill was evident in the shots he seamlessly made. On the other hand, Kyrie Irving seemed to grapple with synchronizing with the game, netting only a single basket from six attempts. This rhythm mismatch might be a significant hurdle for the Mavericks, particularly if they aspire for title contention.
Additionally, the Western Conference is shaping up to be a crucible for the Mavericks. With at least five teams emerging as genuine title contenders, the challenge is immense. Beyond the elite squads, several other teams in the West have showcased playoff potential, further crowding the race.
Given the Mavericks’ current form and the increasing competitiveness of the Western Conference, the road ahead appears steep. Dallas will need to regroup and recalibrate quickly, or they may find themselves overwhelmed in a conference bursting with talent and ambition.
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