GAME 5: DAL (3-2) @ DEN (3-2) | 75-106 loss

[dirkfansince1998]

Agree with @"Kammrath". Luka played lazy defense last night.

A few examples:

https://www.nba.com/stats/events/?GameEventID=257&GameID=0022100075&Season=2021-22&flag=1&title=Rivers%2024%27%203PT%20Jump%20Shot%20(3%20PTS)%20(Gordon%202%20AST)&sct=plot

First Luka falls asleep on the cut. He makes it even worse and cannot find the open man. Finishes it with a lazy closeout. Not even trying to contest the shot.


https://www.nba.com/stats/events/?GameEventID=279&GameID=0022100075&Season=2021-22&flag=1&title=Gordon%203%27%20Layup%20(8%20PTS)%20(Jokic%207%20AST)&sct=plot

Late rotation. If he comes over to help he needs to get between the basket and Gordon.

https://www.nba.com/stats/events/?GameEventID=234&GameID=0022100075&Season=2021-22&flag=1&title=Dozier%2024%27%203PT%20Jump%20Shot%20(3%20PTS)%20(Jokic%206%20AST)&sct=plot

I guess this one is up for debate. His positioning is right in line with Kidd´s new scheme. Staying closer to the rim. But he reacts late and isn´t going all out on the closeout.

https://www.nba.com/stats/events/?GameEventID=34&GameID=0022100075&Season=2021-22&flag=1&title=Porter%20Jr.%20Step%20Back%20Jump%20Shot%20(2%20PTS)&sct=plot

No excuse. Closest to the basket but he isn´t even trying to get back.

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Not saying that he is the sole problem on defense. It´s a team game and most of it comes down to the scheme/coaching. Still pretty obvious that Luka coasts on defense. And for all of his offensive genius. Lacks some awareness. Would even say fundamentals (positioning, close outs, not falling for fakes).