Far from struggling — as some predicted — the Mavericks and Luka Doncic are surging after the deadline trade of Kristaps Porzingis.
Since Doncic became Dallas’ Lone Star on Feb. 10, the three-time All-Star is averaging 35.4 points, 10.7 rebounds, and 6.6 assists with a 114.7 offensive rating — and the Mavs have won nine of 11, good for the 5-seed in the West.
Luka entered the season as the MVP favorite (+400) but began the campaign out of shape and injured his ankle in November, dropping his odds dramatically.
He likely won’t win the award as the seventh-favorite (+3000*) with 20 games left. But his historic run at least proves he was indeed worthy of this summer’s max extension.
- When his $207 million max extension kicks in next year, he’ll have the third-largest contract in the NBA behind Giannis Antetokounmpo ($228M) and Steph Curry ($215M).
- He’s only making $10 million this year, the fifth-highest annual salary on the Mavericks.
- He became the first player since Wilt Chamberlain in 1966 to record multiple games with 45 points, 15 rebounds, and five assists.
Meanwhile, Porzingis still hasn’t played a single game for a Washington team currently out of a play-in spot.
His injury history and remaining three-year, $101 million contract only further vindicated Dallas’ decision.
