Shannon Sharpe Compares Luka Doncic to LeBron James After Impressive Win Over 76ers

Luka Doncic shines in Mavericks win, draws LeBron comparisons, and cements his growing legacy


Shannon Sharpe Compares Luka Doncic to LeBron James After Impressive Win Over 76ers

Dallas Mavericks, Luka Doncic, LeBron James / Jerome Miron-USA TODAY Sports

Dallas Mavericks star Luka Doncic has been drawing comparisons to some of the NBA’s greatest players since joining the league in 2018. However, after an impressive performance in a 133-126 win over the Philadelphia 76ers, NFL Hall of Famer Shannon Sharpe has likened the 24-year-old to LeBron James.

Sharpe, speaking on his show Undisputed alongside Skip Bayless, noted that Doncic’s ball-dominant style enabled his new running mate, Kyrie Irving, to get a feel for the action, much like when James facilitated Kyrie during their time together in Cleveland.

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Doncic’s 40-point, 12-assist game was reminiscent of James in his prime, as he laid on several dimes for his sharpshooting teammates. The Mavericks shot an incredible 52.1% of their 48 three-pointers on the way to a much-needed victory, following a series of single-possession defeats and last-second misses from Irving.

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Despite the impressive win, questions remain over which of the two stars will be entrusted with the final shot come playoff time. Both Doncic and Kyrie have shown themselves capable of handling the pressure, but Sharpe and Bayless raised concerns about too many cooks in the kitchen.

Sharpe’s solution was simple: “Whoever’s hot.” The Mavericks’ ability to navigate this issue may determine their season and the future of Irving with the franchise.

Related: Charles Barkley claims Luka Doncic-Kyrie Irving duo can’t last long due to their one-on-one basketball tactics

The Rise of Doncic: How Luka Doncic is Cementing his Legacy in the NBA

PHOTO: LM OTERO/ASSOCIATED PRESS

Since entering the league in 2018, Luka Doncic has established himself as one of the NBA’s brightest young stars. The Slovenian sensation has already amassed a slew of accolades, including the 2019 Rookie of the Year and two All-Star appearances. Doncic’s skill set is undeniable. His ball handling, court vision, and scoring ability have drawn comparisons to some of the game’s all-time greats. However, what sets Doncic apart is his ability to make those around him better.

In just three seasons, Doncic has already become one of the league’s premier playmakers. His ability to create scoring opportunities for his teammates is unmatched by anyone in the game today. Doncic’s 8.1 assists per game this season rank sixth in the league. But it’s not just his passing that sets Doncic apart. The 24-year-old is also a prolific scorer in his own right. He’s averaging 33.4 points per game this season, first in the league, and his scoring ability was on full display in the Mavericks’ win over the 76ers.

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Doncic’s growing legacy is not just limited to his individual accomplishments. He’s also become a leader on and off the court, helping to guide the Mavericks to the playoffs in each of the last two seasons.

As he continues to develop and refine his game, Doncic is poised to become one of the greatest players in NBA history. His unique blend of scoring and playmaking ability, coupled with his leadership and unselfishness, make him a force to be reckoned with for years to come.

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