NBA analyst and insider Brian Windhorst has delivered a scathing critique of Luka Doncic, declaring that the Mavericks superstar is “costing his team” with his behavior towards officials. The criticism follows Dallas’ 106-99 defeat to Boston in Game 3 of the NBA Finals, a loss that put the Celtics up 3-0 in the series.
Doncic’s Frustration Boils Over
Throughout Thursday’s game, Doncic was visibly frustrated, an emotion that came to a head when he fouled out. His ongoing complaints to officials were costly, gifting the Celtics easy points as he failed to get back on defense. Despite his evident dissatisfaction, Doncic tried to restrain his comments post-game, saying, “We couldn’t play physical. I don’t know. I don’t want to say nothing. You know, six fouls in the NBA Finals, basically I’m like this (motions with palms out). C’mon, man. Better than that.”
He acknowledged earlier in the discussion that he needed to improve, saying he was “trying to be better” and had to “get better” after being targeted by Boston.
Windhorst’s Critique
For Windhorst, Doncic’s attitude during the game and some of his post-game comments demonstrated that he is “nowhere close” to leading Dallas to an NBA title. In a blunt analysis on ESPN, Windhorst criticized Doncic’s defensive performance, calling it “unacceptable.”
“I thought it was perfect Luka fell onto the ground there in an unacceptable position to put himself in with four minutes left with five fouls and then immediately looks at the bench and says you better bleeping challenge it, as if it’s the bench’s fault that he just made a terrible play,” Windhorst began.
A Need for Growth
Windhorst, standing in the Mavericks tunnel, highlighted the stark contrast between the two teams. “I’m standing here in the Mavericks tunnel, over there is the Celtics tunnel. That’s where the winners are. If Luka’s ever going to be a winner coming out of this tunnel here, he’s going to have to use what happened in these Finals as a learning experience.”
He emphasized that Doncic’s defensive lapses and constant complaints to officials are detrimental to the team. “His defensive performance is unacceptable. He’s a hole on the court, the Celtics are attacking him and they are ahead in this series because they have attacked him defensively,” Windhorst stated.
Brian Windhorst goes OFF on Luka Doncic 😳
(🎥 @BoltGangBaby ) pic.twitter.com/Tp7nY2R3Vo
— NBACentral (@TheDunkCentral) June 13, 2024
Impact on Team Dynamics
Windhorst continued, “And you got a situation here where Luka is complaining about the officiating. They have begged him, they have talked with him, they have pleaded with him. He is costing his team because of how he’s treating the officials.” He acknowledged Doncic’s brilliance but stressed that his behavior and performance in this game were why the Mavericks were losing. “He has got to get over this. The fact he came out after the game and blamed the officials shows me he is nowhere close yet.”
Need for Change
Windhorst believes that someone needs to get through to Doncic, as neither the Mavericks nor anyone else in his life has succeeded thus far. “Maybe over the summer someone will get to him because nobody with the Mavericks or anybody else in his life has and that’s why the Mavericks are where they’re at. They’re never going to get to this tunnel with the trophy if he doesn’t improve those aspects of his game.”
Kidd’s Insight
Mavericks coach Jason Kidd admitted after Game 3 that Doncic has a “bullseye on his chest” and urged his star player to let his teammates alleviate some of the pressure on the defensive end. “He’s got to be able to guard and understand that we’re there to protect him and help him if he does get beat,” Kidd said. “Again, he’s carrying a load offensively. They are putting him in every pick-and-roll and iso. He’s got to be able to play the game where he can rest on offense and let others carry the load.”
Doncic’s Path Forward
Doncic’s immense talent is unquestionable, but his journey to becoming a true leader and champion requires addressing the criticisms leveled against him. His ability to adapt, mature, and take constructive feedback to heart will be crucial as he seeks to elevate his game and lead the Mavericks to future successes. The NBA Finals are a test of skill, composure, and resilience, and how Doncic responds to this wake-up call will shape the trajectory of his career and the fortunes of his team.