Luka Doncic admits he needs to be ‘better’ after horrendous shooting performance in Game 1 loss to the Thunder

Doncic this playoff has averaged 28.3 points, 8.4 rebounds, and 9.4 assists, which is a significant drop from his regular season stats.

Luka Doncic admits he needs to be ‘better’ after horrendous shooting performance in Game 1 loss to the Thunder

Luka Doncic

Luka Doncic, after the 117-95 Western Conference semi-final loss to the Oklahoma City Thunder, took responsibility for his poor performance where he acknowledged that he needs to improve. The 2023-24 NBA scoring champion struggled all night with his shot as he went 6/19 (31.57%) from the field scoring 19 points, making six rebounds, and creating nine assists.

A shocking departure from his previous playoff stats where historically he rises to the occasion. Post-game, Doncic appeared well-versed with what took place in Game 1.

Who cares, we lost. We just gotta move on to the next one. I gotta be better, we gotta be better.
Luka Doncic said

Luka Doncic this playoff has averaged 28.3 points, 8.4 rebounds, and 9.4 assists, which is a significant drop from his regular season stats where he averaged a league-high 33.9 points, 9.2 rebounds, and 9.8 assists per game. 

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Furthermore, the Dallas Mavericks and their passionate fanbase have placed their hopes on Doncic finding his shot and rhythm once again. Although his partner-in-crime Kyrie “Batman” Irving had a good game, the main offensive threat is Doncic and if he plays well, everyone tends to step up their game. 

However, Doncic taking accountability for his performance is a great sign for the Mavs as if he can regain his form, the team may still have a chance to mount a comeback. But if he still develops a problem with his shooting radar, then doom is near. 

Luka Doncic praises former teammate Jalen Brunson

Doncic praised his former Dallas Mavericks teammate Jalen Brunson, who is proving his best player in the Eastern Conference tag, after his impressive outing in the 2024 Playoffs for the New York Knicks. Brunson has been key in the Knicks’ run to the semifinal as he has averaged 36.6 points, 4.7 rebounds, and 8.6 assists so far. 

Amazing. He's doing everything for them. I saw the game yesterday. He had a quiet 40. I didn't even know he had 40 until I looked it up. He gets to his spots whenever he wants. That's my guy. I'm really happy for him.
Luka Doncic said per Mike Curtis

Both players were close friends during their time together with the Mavs, as they were also drafted together. However, the Mavs never got to see him perform the way he does for the New York Knicks. 

His playing style, which is similar to that of Doncic, made it difficult for him to become the team’s primary ball handler. However, he has found his footing in the East as their lead player and this season’s playoffs have seen him outperform Doncic, who struggled to find his shooting radar last night. 

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