Luka Dončić: The Next Michael Jordan or LeBron James?
Despite the risk of hyperbole devolving into a hot take, it’s hard to ignore the comparisons between Luka Dončić and basketball legends like Michael Jordan and LeBron James. Year 6 Luka Dončić looks a lot like the 1988-89 Michael Jordan or the 2007-08 LeBron James. This isn’t to say that he’s better than either of the greatest of all time (GOATs), but it’s impossible to watch what he’s doing, how he’s still improving, and think any other young perimeter player is close to his level.
One aspect of Dončić’s game that stands out is his three-point accuracy. He has reached a clip that would put him in the range of a 50-40-90 shooter. If he continues on this pace, he could achieve a 48-38-78 split, which would be a career high. Not only is he scoring at an impressive rate, averaging 33.7 points per game, but he’s also dishing out assists at a career-best rate of 9.2 per game. Dončić’s individual greatness is being overlooked, and it’s time to give credit where it’s due.
There are multiple reasons why Dončić’s greatness is being overlooked, and one of them is a lack of team success. It’s easy for people to forget that the Dallas Mavericks eliminated Chris Paul and the Phoenix Suns from the playoffs just two years ago. However, the front office’s solution to the team’s talent deficiency was questionable. They brought in a shoot-first guard who hasn’t displayed an interest in winning or basketball in years. This move did little to support Dončić and the team’s aspirations.
Furthermore, Dončić’s usage, play style, and weight apathy have drawn comparisons to James Harden. Critics argue that his numbers come at the expense of his teammates finding a rhythm. However, it’s important to remember that Dončić is only 24 years old. Harden was a fully formed player when he started amassing impressive stats. Dončić has room to grow and refine his game.
Comparisons to other players like Jayson Tatum, Devin Booker, and Anthony Edwards are also unwarranted. Dončić is in a league of his own and deserves to be recognized as such. Mark Cuban, the Dallas Mavericks’ owner, must prioritize building a competitive roster around Dončić to maximize his talent and potential.
Dončić is a basketball savant and has the potential to reach the sport’s pinnacle. He’s an above-average roster away from giving MVP voters a reason to reconsider their ballots. Just like there was a time when fans and pundits questioned what they were witnessing with Jordan and James, it’s time to stop doubting Dončić. He’s on track to become one of the all-time greats, and it’s only a matter of opportunity until he reaches his full potential.
In conclusion, Luka Dončić’s performances on the court have drawn comparisons to basketball legends like Michael Jordan and LeBron James. While he may not be better than the GOATs, his skills and potential are undeniable. Despite the lack of team success and the criticisms surrounding his playing style, Dončić’s individual greatness should not be overlooked. He is a player to watch and has the potential to reach the heights of basketball greatness.
