"Just trying to get healthier" - Luka Doncic outlines offseason priority after facing criticism for defensive effort in NBA Finals
Luka Doncic's Dallas Mavericks dropped Monday's Game 5 NBA Finals contest against the Boston Celtics 106-88, losing the series 4-1. After his team's letdown performance, the superstar guard touched on his top priority entering the offseason.
Doncic consistently delivered well-rounded stat lines throughout the finals. Over five outings, he averaged a series-best 29.2 points, 8.8 rebounds, 5.6 assists, 2.6 steals and 2.2 3-pointers per game on 47.2% shooting.
However, his defensive effort was regularly maligned by NBA fans and analysts. Meanwhile, his 3-point shooting fell off drastically in Games 3 to 5, as he shot only 3-for-24 (12.5%), limiting his offensive effectiveness.
After Dallas' decisive Game 5 loss, a reporter began asking Doncic about his status for next month's FIBA Men's Olympic Qualifying Tournament with Slovenia. Before he could finish, the five-time All-Star interjected, highlighting his desire to improve his health before shifting his focus to international competition.
“I don’t want to talk about what’s next, man," Doncic said. "I have some decisions to make. Just trying to get a little bit healthier.”
Listed at 6-foot-7, 230 pounds, many have long called for Luka Doncic to shed weight to enhance the Mavericks' title chances. Meanwhile, he dealt with numerous injuries throughout this year's postseason, including a thoracic contusion in the finals.
Nevertheless, Doncic still made playoff history. Per StatMamba, the 25-year-old became the first player to lead the postseason in total points (635), rebounds (208), assists (178) and steals (41). He also led all players in total 3-pointers (68).
However, perhaps if Doncic prioritizes his fitness this offseason, he can take his game, particularly on the defensive end, to an even higher level.
Luka Doncic commends teammates and coaches for NBA Finals run
While Luka Doncic appeared disheartened following Monday's loss, he still took the opportunity to applaud his teammates and coaches for making an unexpected finals run.
Dallas defied expectations, knocking off three of the Western Conference's top four seeds (LA Clippers, OKC Thunder and Minnesota Timberwolves). It did so as a fifth seed (50-32), making it an underdog throughout the postseason. However, it couldn't overcome a league-best Boston team that went 80-21 in the regular season and playoffs.
"I'm proud of every guy that stepped on the floor," Doncic said. "All the coaches and all the people behind [us]. Obviously, we didn't win the finals, but we did have a hell of a season, and I'm proud of everyone."
While the Mavericks came up short this year, their roster, including Doncic, is primarily comprised of players under 30. So, with minor tweaks, they should be on the short list of premier contenders for next year's championship.
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