As the Dallas Mavericks look to build on their momentum after taking a 2-1 series lead against the LA Clippers in the opening round of the NBA playoffs, their talismanic star Luka Doncic is receiving some sage advice from a respected voice – Goran Dragic, the fellow Slovenian guard who was once teammates with Doncic’s father.
In a recent episode of the “The OGs” podcast hosted by longtime Miami Heat veterans Udonis Haslem and Mike Miller, the 37-year-old Dragic offered important perspective for Doncic and the Championship-hungry Mavericks as they navigate the grind of the postseason.
Doncic’s Brilliant But Exhausting One-Man Carrying Act
There’s no questioning Luka Doncic’s incredible talent and impact as one of the most complete offensive forces in today’s NBA.
The Slovenian wunderkind averaged a stellar 33.9 points per game to go along with 8.6 rebounds and 8.0 assists over the 2023-24 regular season.
Doncic has picked up right where he left off in the playoffs so far, pouring in 29 points per contest while serving as the primary scorer, playmaker, and focal point of virtually every Mavericks offensive set and possession.
However, Dragic feels this overwhelming one-man show act from the 24-year-old Doncic, as remarkable as it is, may need some minor tweaking to ensure he has enough gas left in the tank for the tougher tests that lie ahead in the later rounds.
“Get Off The Ball More” – Dragic’s Wise Words
On the podcast, the crafty veteran point guard Dragic stated: “I think he (Doncic) can win (a championship). He just needs to change a little bit.
Maybe trust more, umm, his teammates. I’m not saying because he doesn’t pass the ball but just get off the ball a little bit more.”
“And because…if you have the ball so much in your hands, you get tired, and then it’s a long season and even in the playoffs, you know, I think that’s too much.”
Dragic’s advice essentially centers around Doncic finding the ideal balance between asserting himself as the go-to scorer and creator that he is, while also getting some smart, timely rest by surrendering the ball more and trusting his teammates.
Finding The Right Blend of Alpha and Distributor
Indeed, the numbers back up Dragic’s wisdom. Doncic’s 37.8 minutes per game ranked 4th in the league, while his staggering 37.8% usage rate was the highest of any NBA player this season.
The 6’7″ point-forward has often had to carry an outsize offensive burden for Dallas, dominating the ball and making most of the plays for the team.
This style, while showcasing his awesome all-around skill as the modern game’s perhaps most unstoppable force, can undoubtedly take a physical and mental toll over a grueling 7-game playoff series and beyond.
In the Mavericks’ Game 3 victory, where Doncic had a relatively quieter 26 points, the team showed they can win when he picks his spots and doesn’t always have to do everything himself.
Kyrie Irving chipped in 28 points, while Christian Wood and others like Tim Hardaway Jr played bigger complementary roles.
Finding this ideal blend of Doncic dominating as the alpha dog for stretches while also showing the wisdom and poise to let others share the load could be pivotal to Dallas’ hopes of not just getting past the Clippers but making a serious championship run.
Conserving Energy Key to Doncic’s Longevity
For the Mavericks and their fans, Dragic’s voice of seasoned experience and perspective could prove invaluable, as they aim not just to win this opening-round series, but advance deep into the treacherous Western Conference playoff waters.
At just 24 years old, Doncic has already cemented his status as arguably the most complete and unstoppable offensive force in today’s NBA, a generational talent capable of taking over any game.
But by strategically modulating his efforts and knowing when to cede control, he could ensure he has enough stamina and energy reserves for the tougher challenges ahead against the juggernauts of the West.
The ultimate goal is clear – lead Dallas to the franchise’s first NBA championship since their 2011 triumph over Miami.
By embracing some of Dragic’s wisdom about balancing his brilliant individuality with timely rest and trust in his teammates, Doncic could give himself and the hungry Mavericks the best chance to go the full distance and achieve that elusive glory this year.
With Luka’s insane ability and Goran’s perspective, Dallas has the recipe to be a champion if they can get the balance right between the two Slovenian stars’ insights.
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