Luka Doncic vs. Shai Gilgeous-Alexander Full Comparison 2023-24

In the pulsating 2023-24 NBA season, Luka Doncic and Shai Gilgeous-Alexander have emerged as frontrunners for the coveted MVP title. Their stellar performances have garnered attention from fans and pundits alike, as both players lead their respective teams with unique skills and substantial contributions.

Amidst this exhilarating campaign, Doncic, steering the ship for the Dallas Mavericks, has propelled the team to a solid record of 22 wins and 15 losses, while Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, guiding the Oklahoma City Thunder, has impressed with an impressive record of 23 wins and 11 losses. In this comprehensive comparison, we will delve into their key statistics to shed light on who might be the best performer by the end of this thrilling season.

Scoring – Luka Doncic

In the scoring department, Luka Doncic demonstrates an impressive ability to put up points with an average of 33.7 points per game. His scoring includes a diverse skill set, combining sharpshooting from beyond the arc, crafty finishes at the rim, and a knack for drawing fouls to convert free throws.

On the other hand, Shai Gilgeous-Alexander is no slouch in scoring, averaging a solid 31.5 points per game. His scoring prowess is characterized by a smooth and versatile offensive game. Shai’s ability to navigate through defenses and create scoring opportunities for himself is evident in this statistic.

Shooting – Luka Doncic

In the realm of shooting, Luka Doncic showcases a higher volume and efficiency from beyond the arc. Doncic is knocking down an impressive average of 4.0 three-pointers per game with a solid 38.2% accuracy. His ability to stretch the floor and threaten defenses from long range adds an additional layer to his scoring arsenal.

Meanwhile, Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, while contributing to the team’s perimeter scoring, has a more conservative approach. He averages 1.2 three-pointers per game with a 34.2% success rate. Shai’s scoring might be more reliant on mid-range jumpers and drives to the basket.

Athleticism – Shai Gilgeous-Alexander

While Luka Doncic may not be classified as an explosive athlete in the traditional sense, his game is defined by a unique blend of skill, vision, and basketball IQ. Doncic compensates for any perceived lack of elite athleticism with a deep understanding of the game and exceptional coordination. His crafty footwork and ability to change pace allow him to navigate through defenses with finesse.

On the other hand, Shai Gilgeous-Alexander is celebrated for his standout athleticism. While specific statistics weren’t provided, Shai’s reputation is built on his exceptional speed, agility, and leaping ability. These physical attributes play a crucial role in his ability to drive to the basket with force, finish at the rim, and contribute significantly on the defensive end.

In summary, Shai’s athleticism is a prominent aspect of his playing style, enabling him to excel in certain aspects of the game. Luka, while not relying on overwhelming physicality, compensates with a high basketball IQ and a deep skill set.

Defense – Shai Gilgeous-Alexander

Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, with a defensive rating of 109.4, showcases a well-rounded defensive game. Leading the NBA in steals with an average of 2.4 steals per game is a testament to his active hands and defensive instincts. Shai’s ability to read the opponent’s plays and create turnovers adds a dynamic element to his team’s defense, often leading to transition opportunities on the offensive end.

Despite possessing a higher defensive rating of 113.4, Luka Doncic has demonstrated an ability to contribute on the defensive end. His defensive presence goes beyond traditional statistics, often involving strategic positioning, anticipation, and playmaking ability. While his steals per game are at 1.3, it’s essential to consider his overall impact, such as contesting shots, disrupting passing lanes, and making crucial stops when it matters.

In a comprehensive evaluation, Shai’s defensive contributions extend beyond individual statistics. His ability to impact the game defensively, evident in both steals and overall defensive rating, makes him a key asset on that end of the court. Luka, while holding his ground defensively, faces a formidable challenge in this comparison due to Shai’s exceptional steal production.

Clutch – Shai Gilgeous-Alexander

In clutch situations, defined by moments in the game with a small point differential in the closing minutes, Shai Gilgeous-Alexander exhibits an impressive level of performance. With a remarkable 65.0% effective field goal percentage and averaging 3.1 points per game, Shai showcases his ability to step up when the game is on the line. His efficiency and scoring output in these crucial moments highlight his composure and ability to deliver in pressure situations.

Luka Doncic, while still maintaining a respectable 51.7% eFG, trails slightly in clutch scoring with an average of 2.9 points per game. Clutch situations often demand players to make crucial shots and decisions, and both statistical categories provide insight into a player’s effectiveness during these high-pressure moments.

In summary, Shai Gilgeous-Alexander’s superior efficiency and scoring output in clutch situations suggest a capacity to thrive under pressure. Luka Doncic, while not far behind, faces a formidable competitor in this aspect of the comparison.

Impact – Shai Gilgeous-Alexander

In terms of overall impact, Shai Gilgeous-Alexander demonstrates a higher Player Efficiency Rating (PER) with an impressive 31.1 for the current season. PER is a comprehensive statistic that takes into account various aspects of a player’s performance, including scoring, passing, rebounding, and defense. Shai’s PER of 31.1 reflects his efficiency and effectiveness across multiple facets of the game.

While Luka Doncic maintains a solid PER of 27.7, Shai’s higher rating suggests a more influential and efficient contribution to his team’s success during the current season. Doncic’s PER is still noteworthy, but Shai’s statistical impact stands out as a key indicator of his overall effectiveness on the court.

In summary, Shai Gilgeous-Alexander holds an advantage in terms of impact, as indicated by the higher Player Efficiency Rating. This statistic underscores Shai’s ability to contribute across various statistical categories and showcases his importance to his team’s performance.

Efficiency – Shai Gilgeous-Alexander

In terms of efficiency, Shai Gilgeous-Alexander displays a higher field goal percentage (54.7%) compared to Luka Doncic (48.7%). However, Doncic holds an advantage in three-point shooting with 38.2% compared to Shai’s 34.2%. Shai excels at the free-throw line, boasting an impressive 89.1% compared to Doncic’s 78.5%.

When considering overall shooting efficiency, both players have similar effective field goal percentages (eFG%). Shai’s eFG% is 57.6%, while Doncic’s is 57.2%. In terms of true shooting percentage (TS%), which accounts for two-pointers, three-pointers, and free throws, Shai has a higher efficiency at 64.3% compared to Doncic’s 61.6%.

In summary, Shai Gilgeous-Alexander demonstrates a slightly higher overall shooting efficiency, driven by his excellent field goal and free throw percentages. However, Doncic’s three-point shooting provides him an edge in that specific aspect.

Handles – Shai Gilgeous-Alexander

Shai Gilgeous-Alexander is renowned for his exceptional ball-handling ability. His smooth crossovers, quick changes of direction, and tight dribbling make him a challenging player to defend in one-on-one situations. Shai’s handles not only allow him to create scoring opportunities for himself but also make him effective in breaking down defenses and facilitating for teammates.

While Luka Doncic possesses solid ball-handling skills, Shai’s standout ability in this area gives him an advantage. Shai’s handles contribute to his ability to navigate through defenders, create separation, and execute plays, showcasing his proficiency in this fundamental aspect of the game.

Leadership – Luka Doncic

The Dallas Mavericks, currently sitting in 6th place with a record of 22-15, hold a solid standing in the league. Notably, in the 32 games that Luka Doncic has played, they boast a record of 21-12. Luka’s leadership on the court is evident in the team’s overall performance when he is actively participating.

On the other hand, Shai Gilgeous-Alexander’s leadership is reflected in the Oklahoma City Thunder’s 2nd-place standing with a record of 23-11. The Thunder have an impressive record of 23-10 in games where Shai is on the court. It’s worth noting that Oklahoma City is recognized for having more depth and overall productivity compared to the Mavericks.

The Thunder’s advantage in depth and overall team productivity could be attributed to the fact that they are not as reliant on a single player for scoring and playmaking. Dallas, in contrast, is perceived as being heavily dependent on Luka Doncic and potentially another key player like Kyrie Irving to generate offense and create opportunities for the rest of the team.

Basketball IQ – Luka Doncic

In the realm of basketball IQ, Luka Doncic stands out as a player with exceptional intelligence and understanding of the game.

Luka Doncic’s basketball IQ is a cornerstone of his playing style. His ability to read defenses, make precise decisions, and elevate the performance of his teammates reflects a high level of basketball intelligence. Doncic’s court vision and playmaking skills are indicative of his strategic thinking on the court. Whether it’s finding an open teammate for an easy basket or making a timely defensive play, Doncic consistently showcases a deep understanding of the nuances of basketball.

This basketball intelligence is evident not just in individual plays but also in his overall impact on the game. Doncic has the ability to adapt to different situations, exploit opponent weaknesses, and make the right basketball decisions in crucial moments.

While Shai Gilgeous-Alexander is a talented player, Luka Doncic’s basketball IQ gives him a distinct advantage in this category. Doncic’s cerebral approach to the game contributes significantly to his effectiveness on the court and elevates the performance of the Dallas Mavericks.

1-On-1 Game – Luka Doncic

In the context of one-on-one play, Luka Doncic showcases an impressive ability to score with an average of 8.1 points per game in isolation situations. His effective field goal percentage (53.5%) and score frequency (47.1%) demonstrate his efficiency and effectiveness in one-on-one scenarios.

Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, while still proficient in isolation, scores slightly fewer points per game (6.4) but boasts a higher score frequency at 56.3%. Shai’s ability to score more frequently in isolation situations indicates his knack for breaking down defenders and creating scoring opportunities.

In summary, both players excel in one-on-one situations, but Luka Doncic’s slightly higher points per game and efficient scoring give him the edge in this aspect of the game. Shai’s higher score frequency suggests a different approach, emphasizing his effectiveness in creating and capitalizing on scoring chances.

Final Result

Shai Gilgeous-Alexander 6-5 Luka Doncic

The comparison between Luka Doncic and Shai Gilgeous-Alexander in the 2023-24 season reveals a fascinating contrast of skills and contributions to their respective teams.

Luka Doncic shines in key areas such as leadership and basketball IQ, showcasing an exceptional ability to make strategic decisions on the court. His impact on the Dallas Mavericks’ performance is undeniable, leading the team in crucial situations and demonstrating a deep understanding of the game.

Doncic’s influence extends beyond the box score, as his leadership on the court has a profound impact on the Dallas Mavericks. His ability to elevate the play of his teammates, create scoring opportunities, and navigate high-pressure situations demonstrates not only his individual brilliance but also his role as a catalyst for team success.

On the other hand, Shai Gilgeous-Alexander impresses with his athleticism, excelling in categories such as shooting efficiency and one-on-one performance. His ability to lead the Oklahoma City Thunder to a prominent position in the league suggests a pivotal role in the team’s overall success.