Still never fixed this issue either doing the trade deadline
Dallas Mavericks need for a playmaker shows in loss to Pacers
Luka is the team’s unquestioned lead ball-handler. He tops the NBA in time of possession and is fourth in touches per game. The 22-year-old is an incredible playmaker. He led the Mavericks to the highest offensive rating in NBA history last season, but Dallas might benefit from adding someone that can take the ball out of his hands a bit.
That need shined through on Friday night. The Mavs struggled mightily with Doncic on the sidelines. Kristaps Porzingis stepped up and had a monster 31-point and 18-rebound night, but it was not enough. Here is a look at why Dallas needs another playmaker.
The Mavs sit 26th in the NBA by producing 22.8 assists per game this season as Luka averages 9.1 a night. The ball can get sticky without Doncic on the floor, and it did for extended stretches on March 26.
Dallas had just 17 assists against the Pacers with no player producing more than three. They were just 38 of 94 shooting from the field and an atrocious eight of 35 from 3-point range. Doncic creates more wide open threes than any player in the league, but the Mavericks had to settle for contested looks without him. The ball was just not moving on Friday night as they struggled to create easy shots.
If the Mavs had a secondary playmaker that could play off Luka, they would be better suited to win without their superstar. It is one of the reasons Dallas targeted Kemba Walker in the 2019 offseason. The Mavericks are projected to have cap space this summer. It will be interesting to see if they attempt to sign another capable ball-handler and playmaker.
Jalen Brunson will be a backup point guard in the NBA for the next decade-plus.
JB had an off night against the Pacers. He finished with ten points, four rebounds, and two assists in 34 minutes. The Mavs needed more from their fill-in starter at point guard.
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