Basketball

His defense has been great this whole series – Jason Kidd lauds Luka Doncic after win against the Clippers

Dallas Mavericks talisman Luka Doncic is more known for his offensive skills rather than his defensive game. However, the Slovenian has been at his best on the other side of the court. The Mavericks registered a 96-93 win against the LA Clippers in the second game of the first-round playoffs to level the scores.

Doncic finished with 32 points and 9 assists but more importantly, he led his team in defense. The Clippers could only shoot 36.8% from the floor, their lowest field goal percentage of the season, and Doncic played a key role in keeping the opposition at bay.

“I think his defense has been great this whole series,” Mavs coach Jason Kidd said. “We know they’re going to put him in pick-and-roll. A couple years ago we saw this, and we had to tell him to participate. But I think he’s participating at a high level on both ends. He’s leading not just on the offensive end but also the defensive end.”

According to ESPN Stats & Information, the Clippers shot only 2-of-17 from the floor when Doncic was the main defender. LA could not take all 11 shots that Doncic contested.

“I accept it,” Doncic said regarding the challenge of the Clippers’ strategy of attempting to attack him as often as possible. “It gets me going on defensive end, too. That’s fine. I think I played good defense today. I’ve just got to stay locked in.”

Mavs center/power forward Maxi Kleber showered praise on Doncic for his fine performance.

“When he gets his stops like this and pushes it, it’s even more fun for us because we already know what he does on offense,” said Mavs center/power forward Maxi Kleber.

“It spreads to everybody else. He’s bringing the energy and he’s going to set the tone for us. And when he does stuff like that, it gives everybody juice.”

The third match of the series will be played on Friday.

About the Author


Written by DafaNews

DafaNews brings you the most highlighted news in the world of Sports. It serves you up-to-date matches, scores, live streams, fantasy games and quizzes. Our news covers prestigious leagues and events – Premier League, Champions League, World Cup and many more.

Related Post
Share
Published by
DafaNews

Recent Posts

NBA: Warriors’ De’Anthony Melton to Miss Season with Knee Surgery

Golden State Warriors guard De’Anthony Melton will undergo season-ending surgery to repair a partially torn… Read More

November 21, 2024

Juan Mata Becomes First Active International Footballer to Join MLS Ownership with San Diego FC

World Cup-winning Spanish footballer Juan Mata has joined the ownership group of Major League Soccer’s… Read More

November 21, 2024

Millot may join PSG as French champions react to Yamal link

Since joining VfB Stuttgart from AS Monaco at a young age, Enzo Millot has thrived… Read More

November 21, 2024

Top three talking points for Premier League’s return

With the final international break of 2024 done and dusted, league football can resume across… Read More

November 21, 2024

PGA Tour introduces new changes ahead for 2026

The PGA Tour has announced significant changes to its eligibility criteria and tournament structures, set… Read More

November 21, 2024

Barcelona to endure lengthy Yamal absence

Spanish La Liga club Barcelona may have to endure a lengthy absence for Spanish winger… Read More

November 21, 2024