Monstrous since his draft, Luka Doncic has yet to make it through the playoffs. The number of people around him does not seem to be enough to take a step forward, and there are some new elements that could help make the difference. We take stock.
If his statistics against the Clippers were mind-blowing (more than 35 points and 10 assists on average), Luka Doncic must watch the second round of the playoffs at home, for the second year in a row. The series has shown it, the Slovenian is far too lonely in Dallas. GM Donnie Nelson therefore has his work cut out for him, and he could start by recruiting some of the following players:
Derrick Rose (Knicks – agent libre)
His various visits to Wolves, Pistons and Knicks have shown it well, D-Rose still has some under the hood. An excellent scorer and capable of driving the game in streaks, the former No. 1 draft would greatly relieve Luka in the lead, relieving him of a lot of offensive responsibilities. If he will not improve the defensive level of the Texan backcourt, the ex-Bull would bring experience and creativity, two things that the Mavs lack.
Marcus Smart (Celtics – trade)
(Much) less inventive than Rose in attack, Marcus Smart is however a reference to his position in his own half of the field. The leader of the C’s would thus bring an immediate boost to the defensive level of his team. His presence would also help to no longer see Doncic targeted by opposing attackers. On top of that, the boy’s leadership wouldn’t displease Rick Carlisle. However, it will be necessary to propose a sufficiently attractive trade offer to convince Boston.
Myles Turner (Pacers – trade)
As with Smart, a trade will be necessary to acquire Samurai Myles. If it works, on the other hand, it would be a huge addition for Dallas, who would thus recover the circle protector (3.4 blocks per game this year) that the team misses so much. Less asking for balls in attack than Kristaps Porzingis, Turner would also bring a little spacing, being able to shoot behind the arc. Enough to open up real boulevards for its player franchise.
Serge Ibaka (Clippers – agent libre)
In a similar vein, although older than Turner, Serge Ibaka could also be a valuable reinforcement. With 2 career-averaging blocks, Iblocka knows how to play racket totems, even if his numbers have fallen in recent years. At the same time, he has become a credible three-point threat (36% career average). Champion two years ago with Toronto, finalist in 2012, the Hispano-Congolese would also have knowledge to share with Doncic & co.
Kyle Lowry (Raptors – agent libre)
If his age (35) does not allow him to be considered as an option in the long term, Kyle Lowry would bring with him several advantages. On the one hand, it would not be very expensive and therefore allow the Mavs to invest in other players. Then, his immense experience (2019 Champion, 960 NBA games) would be an undeniable plus for Luka, who would have there a mentor that he has not had since the retirement of Dirk Nowitzki. A sort of locker room daron, invaluable for any self-respecting contender.
