Luka Dončić Discussion - Year 2

[Rn5ho]

With all this talk "Luka, the new face and the future of Mavs" and so on - how do you guys think DSJ will handle that? He was THE talent and the future throughout whole past season and the guy a lot of hopes were put into for Mavs future, but now suddenly there's another guy who's taking all the highlights?

Sure it's often "the backcourt of the future", but Luka is still pretty much taking all the highlights for himself it seems.. is DSJ the kind of character that can handle this? Is his ego not too big? Can they actually become the Batman and Robin instead of Westbrook and Durant?

Basically what I wrote back in July..

It does seem at times as if there is some kind of jealousy going on from DSJ side.. he seems to be unhappy that his game is not going as expected while Luka is taking all the praise and highlights, which IMO makes DSJ simply force things. I hope he can pull it together as I really like DSJ personally (way more than I did before the beginning of the season) and if he can accept the role that fits him best, this could really work out. I 100% wouldn't trade away DSJ (yet).

[daoneandonly]

With all this talk "Luka, the new face and the future of Mavs" and so on - how do you guys think DSJ will handle that? He was THE talent and the future throughout whole past season and the guy a lot of hopes were put into for Mavs future, but now suddenly there's another guy who's taking all the highlights?

Sure it's often "the backcourt of the future", but Luka is still pretty much taking all the highlights for himself it seems.. is DSJ the kind of character that can handle this? Is his ego not too big? Can they actually become the Batman and Robin instead of Westbrook and Durant?

Basically what I wrote back in July..

It does seem at times as if there is some kind of jealousy going on from DSJ side.. he seems to be unhappy that his game is not going as expected while Luka is taking all the praise and highlights, which IMO makes DSJ simply force things. I hope he can pull it together as I really like DSJ personally (way more than I did before the beginning of the season) and if he can accept the role that fits him best, this could really work out. I 100% wouldn't trade away DSJ (yet).

I wouldnt trade him either any time soon, such an overreaction from some folks who already want him gone. Especially for guys like Josh Jackson who is an even worse shooter or Frank Ntkinna who is arguably the most timid player in the entire league, no thanks!

[Jstock12]

I think it's good that DSJ has had a chance to play a key part on a 24-win team. It might give him some perspective on how important it is to have another star level player on your team. Hopefully they continue to build their chemistry instead of going with the 'this one is mine, next one is yours' mentality.

[Bob8]

With all this talk "Luka, the new face and the future of Mavs" and so on - how do you guys think DSJ will handle that? He was THE talent and the future throughout whole past season and the guy a lot of hopes were put into for Mavs future, but now suddenly there's another guy who's taking all the highlights?

Sure it's often "the backcourt of the future", but Luka is still pretty much taking all the highlights for himself it seems.. is DSJ the kind of character that can handle this? Is his ego not too big? Can they actually become the Batman and Robin instead of Westbrook and Durant?

Basically what I wrote back in July..

It does seem at times as if there is some kind of jealousy going on from DSJ side.. he seems to be unhappy that his game is not going as expected while Luka is taking all the praise and highlights, which IMO makes DSJ simply force things. I hope he can pull it together as I really like DSJ personally (way more than I did before the beginning of the season) and if he can accept the role that fits him best, this could really work out. I 100% wouldn't trade away DSJ (yet).

I wouldnt trade him either any time soon, such an overreaction from some folks who already want him gone. Especially for guys like Josh Jackson who is an even worse shooter or Frank Ntkinna who is arguably the most timid player in the entire league, no thanks!

I don’t like Ntilikina to much too, but he would have brought a lot in D. and he wouldn’t try to force something that he isn’t capable of. he would have been net positive for Dallas. DSJ isn’t at the moment and it seems unlikely he will be in near future. His skill set looks just wrong for this team. I agree, DSJ should get chance this year, but if he doesn’t take it... DSJ is playing exactly like last year, the difference is that this team is not on tanking mission anymore.

[arkuo]

I think DSJ needs to play the Tony Parker role. He isnt exactly a pure facilitator but scores himself too. Dennis also has a quick first step just like Parker. Luka can play the Manu role. Let's start with that.

[agentofatlas]

With all this talk "Luka, the new face and the future of Mavs" and so on - how do you guys think DSJ will handle that? He was THE talent and the future throughout whole past season and the guy a lot of hopes were put into for Mavs future, but now suddenly there's another guy who's taking all the highlights?

Sure it's often "the backcourt of the future", but Luka is still pretty much taking all the highlights for himself it seems.. is DSJ the kind of character that can handle this? Is his ego not too big? Can they actually become the Batman and Robin instead of Westbrook and Durant?

Basically what I wrote back in July..

It does seem at times as if there is some kind of jealousy going on from DSJ side.. he seems to be unhappy that his game is not going as expected while Luka is taking all the praise and highlights, which IMO makes DSJ simply force things. I hope he can pull it together as I really like DSJ personally (way more than I did before the beginning of the season) and if he can accept the role that fits him best, this could really work out. I 100% wouldn't trade away DSJ (yet).

Don't really see the jealousy stuff. Seems like some die hard Luka fans narrative just to increase his usage.

Dennis (and Luka) will definitely have an up and down season. That is expected. His role has changed from last season and he's learning to play off ball and when to pick his spots.

I fully believe that DSJ's ceiling fits perfectly with Luka's game.

While he's not 100% untouchable, calling for trade seems premature.

[Bob8]

With all this talk "Luka, the new face and the future of Mavs" and so on - how do you guys think DSJ will handle that? He was THE talent and the future throughout whole past season and the guy a lot of hopes were put into for Mavs future, but now suddenly there's another guy who's taking all the highlights?

Sure it's often "the backcourt of the future", but Luka is still pretty much taking all the highlights for himself it seems.. is DSJ the kind of character that can handle this? Is his ego not too big? Can they actually become the Batman and Robin instead of Westbrook and Durant?

Basically what I wrote back in July..

It does seem at times as if there is some kind of jealousy going on from DSJ side.. he seems to be unhappy that his game is not going as expected while Luka is taking all the praise and highlights, which IMO makes DSJ simply force things. I hope he can pull it together as I really like DSJ personally (way more than I did before the beginning of the season) and if he can accept the role that fits him best, this could really work out. I 100% wouldn't trade away DSJ (yet).

Don't really see the jealousy stuff. Seems like some die hard Luka fans narrative just to increase his usage.

Dennis (and Luka) will definitely have an up and down season. That is expected. His role has changed from last season and he's learning to play off ball and when to pick his spots.

I fully believe that DSJ's ceiling fits perfectly with Luka's game.

While he's not 100% untouchable, calling for trade seems premature.

It’s not about Luka’s usage, he’s getting enough chances as a rookie, but about how will Dallas wins games against better opponents. Luka should improve his turnovers ratio and shooting, some others will have improve other things, but DSJ needs to play totally different game. Is he capable of? Let’s see and talk in 1 year time.

[Rn5ho]

With all this talk "Luka, the new face and the future of Mavs" and so on - how do you guys think DSJ will handle that? He was THE talent and the future throughout whole past season and the guy a lot of hopes were put into for Mavs future, but now suddenly there's another guy who's taking all the highlights?

Sure it's often "the backcourt of the future", but Luka is still pretty much taking all the highlights for himself it seems.. is DSJ the kind of character that can handle this? Is his ego not too big? Can they actually become the Batman and Robin instead of Westbrook and Durant?

Basically what I wrote back in July..

It does seem at times as if there is some kind of jealousy going on from DSJ side.. he seems to be unhappy that his game is not going as expected while Luka is taking all the praise and highlights, which IMO makes DSJ simply force things. I hope he can pull it together as I really like DSJ personally (way more than I did before the beginning of the season) and if he can accept the role that fits him best, this could really work out. I 100% wouldn't trade away DSJ (yet).

Don't really see the jealousy stuff. Seems like some die hard Luka fans narrative just to increase his usage.

Dennis (and Luka) will definitely have an up and down season. That is expected. His role has changed from last season and he's learning to play off ball and when to pick his spots.

I fully believe that DSJ's ceiling fits perfectly with Luka's game.

While he's not 100% untouchable, calling for trade seems premature.

As I said - I REALLY like DSJ so far. I really do. What I meant was the subconscious jealousy in the sense that whole game and Dallas story revolved around him last year, he was THE future of the franchise and he was given free hands to do whatever he wanted. And then suddenly some younger kid from Europe comes around and everyone forgets about you and puts him as the future face of the franchise, as the guy who they are willing to put two 1st round picks into. A guy who plays similar position (or at least is the best with ball in his hands).

No matter what, if you're competitive, this kind of thing gets to you. This kind of things makes you wanna prove everyone wrong and show them that you got what it takes to be the best and that it was unfair to take all the attention away from you. I'd at least be surprised if that weren't the case. I can see them being good friends and all, but subconsciously I think this is still present with DSJ. I just hope he can realize that playing for the team is the way to go and that personal stats don't matter if team isn't successful - then the game will come to him and I think he will be a great player for years to come. Basically I think it's all in the mindset.

[agentofatlas]

Basically what I wrote back in July..

It does seem at times as if there is some kind of jealousy going on from DSJ side.. he seems to be unhappy that his game is not going as expected while Luka is taking all the praise and highlights, which IMO makes DSJ simply force things. I hope he can pull it together as I really like DSJ personally (way more than I did before the beginning of the season) and if he can accept the role that fits him best, this could really work out. I 100% wouldn't trade away DSJ (yet).

Don't really see the jealousy stuff. Seems like some die hard Luka fans narrative just to increase his usage.

Dennis (and Luka) will definitely have an up and down season. That is expected. His role has changed from last season and he's learning to play off ball and when to pick his spots.

I fully believe that DSJ's ceiling fits perfectly with Luka's game.

While he's not 100% untouchable, calling for trade seems premature.

It’s not about Luka’s usage, he’s getting enough chances as a rookie, but about how will Dallas wins games against better opponents. Luka should improve his turnovers ratio and shooting, some others will have improve other things, but DSJ needs to play totally different game. Is he capable of? Let’s see and talk in 1 year time.

I agree. It will take time. That's my point. This is a case of a young PG learning a new role. Patience is needed here.

[agentofatlas]

Basically what I wrote back in July..

It does seem at times as if there is some kind of jealousy going on from DSJ side.. he seems to be unhappy that his game is not going as expected while Luka is taking all the praise and highlights, which IMO makes DSJ simply force things. I hope he can pull it together as I really like DSJ personally (way more than I did before the beginning of the season) and if he can accept the role that fits him best, this could really work out. I 100% wouldn't trade away DSJ (yet).

Don't really see the jealousy stuff. Seems like some die hard Luka fans narrative just to increase his usage.

Dennis (and Luka) will definitely have an up and down season. That is expected. His role has changed from last season and he's learning to play off ball and when to pick his spots.

I fully believe that DSJ's ceiling fits perfectly with Luka's game.

While he's not 100% untouchable, calling for trade seems premature.

As I said - I REALLY like DSJ so far. I really do. What I meant was the subconscious jealousy in the sense that whole game and Dallas story revolved around him last year, he was THE future of the franchise and he was given free hands to do whatever he wanted. And then suddenly some younger kid from Europe comes around and everyone forgets about you and puts him as the future face of the franchise, as the guy who they are willing to put two 1st round picks into. A guy who plays similar position (or at least is the best with ball in his hands).

No matter what, if you're competitive, this kind of thing gets to you. This kind of things makes you wanna prove everyone wrong and show them that you got what it takes to be the best and that it was unfair to take all the attention away from you. I'd at least be surprised if that weren't the case. I can see them being good friends and all, but subconsciously I think this is still present with DSJ. I just hope he can realize that playing for the team is the way to go and that personal stats don't matter if team isn't successful - then the game will come to him and I think he will be a great player for years to come. Basically I think it's all in the mindset.

Well, with all due respect man, you can't just project and assume what's going on a person's head.

[J_T]

For those who missed it or are too young to remember Sheed the Legend.

Ball don't lie

[arkuo]

The best we could hope for is this isnt another Jason Kidd - Jimmy Jackson kind of thing. Like I said, Barnes and Dirk being the vets can step in and tresh it out.

[Rn5ho]

Don't really see the jealousy stuff. Seems like some die hard Luka fans narrative just to increase his usage.

Dennis (and Luka) will definitely have an up and down season. That is expected. His role has changed from last season and he's learning to play off ball and when to pick his spots.

I fully believe that DSJ's ceiling fits perfectly with Luka's game.

While he's not 100% untouchable, calling for trade seems premature.

As I said - I REALLY like DSJ so far. I really do. What I meant was the subconscious jealousy in the sense that whole game and Dallas story revolved around him last year, he was THE future of the franchise and he was given free hands to do whatever he wanted. And then suddenly some younger kid from Europe comes around and everyone forgets about you and puts him as the future face of the franchise, as the guy who they are willing to put two 1st round picks into. A guy who plays similar position (or at least is the best with ball in his hands).

No matter what, if you're competitive, this kind of thing gets to you. This kind of things makes you wanna prove everyone wrong and show them that you got what it takes to be the best and that it was unfair to take all the attention away from you. I'd at least be surprised if that weren't the case. I can see them being good friends and all, but subconsciously I think this is still present with DSJ. I just hope he can realize that playing for the team is the way to go and that personal stats don't matter if team isn't successful - then the game will come to him and I think he will be a great player for years to come. Basically I think it's all in the mindset.

Well, with all due respect man, you can't just project and assume what's going on a person's head.

Well, with all due respect man, I can assume (and be wrong or right) about something that is potentially going on in DSJ's head. It's not like all human beings are selfless team players who only care about the greater good. I'm NOT saying this is guaranteed happening with DSJ, I'm pointing this out as potential issue that might be happening.

[J_T]

I don't think DSJ is selfish. He is confused at the moment, because he still needs to find his way. I strongly believe that his biggest concern now is not to let his team down, not being jealous of his new teammates.

[agentofatlas]

As I said - I REALLY like DSJ so far. I really do. What I meant was the subconscious jealousy in the sense that whole game and Dallas story revolved around him last year, he was THE future of the franchise and he was given free hands to do whatever he wanted. And then suddenly some younger kid from Europe comes around and everyone forgets about you and puts him as the future face of the franchise, as the guy who they are willing to put two 1st round picks into. A guy who plays similar position (or at least is the best with ball in his hands).

No matter what, if you're competitive, this kind of thing gets to you. This kind of things makes you wanna prove everyone wrong and show them that you got what it takes to be the best and that it was unfair to take all the attention away from you. I'd at least be surprised if that weren't the case. I can see them being good friends and all, but subconsciously I think this is still present with DSJ. I just hope he can realize that playing for the team is the way to go and that personal stats don't matter if team isn't successful - then the game will come to him and I think he will be a great player for years to come. Basically I think it's all in the mindset.

Well, with all due respect man, you can't just project and assume what's going on a person's head.

Well, with all due respect man, I can assume (and be wrong or right) about something that is potentially going on in DSJ's head. It's not like all human beings are selfless team players who only care about the greater good. I'm NOT saying this is guaranteed happening with DSJ, I'm pointing this out as potential issue that might be happening.

Ok, so what's your point then? Trade DSJ cause you feel that he's jealous? That's ridiculous even if your assumption is correct.

[JamesConway]

As I said - I REALLY like DSJ so far. I really do. What I meant was the subconscious jealousy in the sense that whole game and Dallas story revolved around him last year, he was THE future of the franchise and he was given free hands to do whatever he wanted. And then suddenly some younger kid from Europe comes around and everyone forgets about you and puts him as the future face of the franchise, as the guy who they are willing to put two 1st round picks into. A guy who plays similar position (or at least is the best with ball in his hands).

No matter what, if you're competitive, this kind of thing gets to you. This kind of things makes you wanna prove everyone wrong and show them that you got what it takes to be the best and that it was unfair to take all the attention away from you. I'd at least be surprised if that weren't the case. I can see them being good friends and all, but subconsciously I think this is still present with DSJ. I just hope he can realize that playing for the team is the way to go and that personal stats don't matter if team isn't successful - then the game will come to him and I think he will be a great player for years to come. Basically I think it's all in the mindset.

Well, with all due respect man, you can't just project and assume what's going on a person's head.

Well, with all due respect man, I can assume (and be wrong or right) about something that is potentially going on in DSJ's head. It's not like all human beings are selfless team players who only care about the greater good. I'm NOT saying this is guaranteed happening with DSJ, I'm pointing this out as potential issue that might be happening.

Your assumption is basically pointless though bc there's just no way for outsiders like us to verify or falsify it. How do you measure jealousy on a basketball court? You can't.

But you can quantify:

- Dennis three point shot
- Dennis FG% at the rim
- Dennis PPP-numbers in PnRs

And he's been crap in all three categories (among others). Those are real oncourt basketball problems and smth that's worth looking into. Not some psychological hypothesis made from the outside looking in that you already thought about months ago despite these two not even having played together for a single game back then.

[Rn5ho]

The question is - why are those %'s so bad? Why is he continually forcing shots, especially when they are not falling? Why is he continually forcing bad moves when it's clear he can do better than that? I'm not saying I'm right - it's just a possible hypothesis.

And again, someone please quote me where I said I want to trade DSJ - please, go ahead. I did NOT say that, I specifically said that I'm actually positively surprised by DSJ after seeing him in pre-season and now in the 3 games and I really liked what I saw. I think he will have a great career, just needs to get into the right mindset, whatever the reasons might be - he should play to his advantages, not just force things for the sake of doing something on the court.

[thr3ep01nte4]

I think DSJ needs to play the Tony Parker role. He isnt exactly a pure facilitator but scores himself too. Dennis also has a quick first step just like Parker. Luka can play the Manu role. Let's start with that.

Sounds great on paper. DSJ's finishing ability around the basket is nowhere near Parker's. Dude bricks open layups on a regular basis. Let alone attempting those tear drops over big men.

DSJ can't shoot nor can he finish around the basket. He's not a good facilitator either. He needs to improve fast. Otherwise, he needs to be traded before his value falls too much.

[Dirk]

DSJ was 'the young star' last year and he didn't look like a selfish guy. I have not felt like he is bothered by the spotlight being on another young player. I have always had the impression that he actually has good instincts/vision/passing ability but his game is still very far from refined yet.

Three games in his percentages are pretty bad, but I have not felt like he has forced all that much. According to nba.com out of his 15 3 point attempts, 10 are classified as 'open shots' and he is 1/10 on them (Luka is 2/14). I think we really need to give it a few more games to have these narratives about chemistry and psychological factors. I have to believe that he won't be a 20% 3 point shooter, just like Luka won't average over 4 turnovers a game... the numbers are out of whack with such a small sample.

Even if DSJ struggles this season, I would be very surprised if I come away from it thinking that it has anything to do with jealously or something like that.

[daoneandonly]

For those of you who know Luka well, who is the type of player that he is best paired with? Specific examples of NBA guys?