JUST IN: Luka Doncic makes decision that’ll frustrate Mavericks fans
The Dallas Mavericks’ season came to an end exactly one week ago, with a loss to the Boston Celtics in Game 5 of the 2024 NBA Finals. Now, all eyes are on Nico Harrison to see how he will address the team’s needs in the offseason.
One of the most glaring issues for the Mavericks in the Finals was their lack of a reliable third scorer. This deficiency placed enormous pressure on Luka Doncic and Kyrie Irving, as no other player consistently stepped up to alleviate their offensive burden. This imbalance was a significant factor in Boston’s victory.
Despite the team’s overall performance, Doncic was outstanding in the Finals, showcasing his skill and determination. However, there is speculation that he might be contemplating a decision that could frustrate Mavericks fans. This decision could potentially involve his future with the team or his approach to the offseason.
For the Mavericks, the primary goal will be to acquire a player who can reliably contribute as a third scorer. This addition would not only lighten the load on Doncic and Irving but also enhance the team’s overall offensive efficiency and depth.
Luka Dončić is back with the Slovenian National Team as they attempt to qualify for the Olympics in Paris this summer 👀 #MFFL
(🎥: @kzs_si) pic.twitter.com/I7vH8u3CJK
— Kevin Gray Jr. (@KevinGraySports) June 24, 2024
As the offseason progresses, it will be crucial for Harrison to make strategic moves to strengthen the roster and address the shortcomings exposed during the Finals. Mavs fans will be eagerly watching to see how the team prepares for another potential championship run next season.
All signs point to Luka Doncic playing for Slovenia in pre-Olympic qualifiers
Luka Doncic has joined the Slovenian National Team to prepare for the pre-Olympic qualifiers. Despite his recent injuries, he is set to have his knee evaluated by the Slovenian team’s medical staff, and all indications are that he will participate in the qualifiers.
Slovenia must win the pre-Olympic qualifier tournament in Greece to secure a spot in the Olympics. Although Dallas expected Doncic to play for Slovenia this summer, this decision has caused frustration among some Mavs fans. While Doncic’s desire to represent his country is understandable, the risk of further injury is concerning.
Doncic was plagued by injuries throughout the playoffs, including a knee sprain and a thoracic contusion, which required pain-killing injections. He has had little time to rest before joining the Slovenian team. Reports during the playoffs suggested that if it were the regular season, Doncic would have been shut down for several weeks due to his injuries. His swift return to the court, less than a week after the NBA Finals, raises concerns about his ability to stay healthy during the pre-Olympic qualifiers and the Olympics if Slovenia advances.
Last summer, Doncic’s thigh injury from the previous year troubled him during the FIBA World Cup. Given the extent of his injuries during the playoffs, the pre-Olympic qualifiers pose a significant risk. Doncic has a history of reaggravating injuries, and fans fear that his participation could lead to further complications.
While Doncic’s commitment to playing for Slovenia was expected, many Mavs fans would have preferred he take the time to fully recover. His noticeable limp upon arrival at the Slovenian practice adds to these concerns. Although he has not yet been cleared to play and awaits the medical staff’s approval, it is clear that representing his country is a priority for Doncic.
For the latest updates on Luka Doncic and the Dallas Mavericks this offseason, stay tuned.