05-09-2024, 01:17 PM
(05-09-2024, 01:05 PM)KillerLeft Wrote: I agree with this rationale, but I ALSO think Luka, great as he is, has some ways to go in the area of applying his astonishing skills in such a way that contributes to team success.
The roster could always be better, sure, but I don't think it has been as bad as the group-think around here has bemoaned for the past few seasons. Right now, I'd say it's up there with all but maybe 3-4 teams, especially when Kleber is healthy, and there's opportunity to get better as they get more comfortable with each other.
The bulk of the improvement, as I see it, will need to come from Luka, and from coaching. I think Donnie Nelson had it right a few years back when he did that radio interview. As a scorer, Luka has already arrived at the top of the talent/basketball IQ pool, but as a PG he has 2-3 more levels to reach before the Mavs can be in the national conversation of contenders. That's why he's not winning MVP's.
It is tricky because the ball in Luka's hands is going to lead to good shots and most likely a top offense. I agree with you there are a few things I would like to see him do as a dominant ball handler. He is going to make the right decision on most plays and the results speak for themselves. I would like to see him realize when a player is on a heater that I will do this small movement to get the hot guy in better position and feed him when he is hot. Also, when a player is cold or in a bad streak, I would like to see him to look to get that player easy looks. Maybe it is a shot. Maybe it is give him some touches, etc. It is small things but I think he can improve there.
I am not saying he never does this, but for a guy who has the ball so much, I would like it to be done more.
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