Film Study: How Luka Doncic & Kyrie Irving Led Mavs' Offense to Pick Apart Suns
DALLAS — The Dallas Mavericks defeated the Phoenix Suns on Thursday night, with 123-113 being the final score. Luka Doncic produced a dynamic performance by recording 41 points, nine rebounds, and 11 assists. Meanwhile, Kyrie Irving added another 29 points.
With Doncic being so skilled as a strong, 6-foot-7 guard, the options are limited in how a defender can approach trying to contain him. Kevin Durant explained how physicality plays a significant part in the process, but he can dictate "what he wants" due to his pace and overall shot-creation ability.
"You can't be as physical with him because he is just so crafty," Durant said. "That is half the battle on defense, being physical. [We] try to dictate where the offensive player goes, but he dictates what he wants. [He] plays at his pace, and he can make every shot."
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Devin Booker emphasized the importance of staying attentive throughout a full game when guarding Doncic since he will have the ball in his hands often, finding the balance between making plays for teammates and looking to score himself.
"You have to be ready every possession," Booker said. "You know the ball is going to be in his hands. He has the balance figured out of making the right play to his team and knowing when to be aggressive at the same time."
Watch the in-depth breakdown of the Mavs' offense countered the Suns' defense on my YouTube channel. You can check out the Mavs' press availabilities, and other content can be viewed there throughout the season.
As a result of defeating the Suns, the Mavs clinched the series tiebreaker by finishing with a 2-1 record in the three regular-season matchups they are scheduled to play. If they meet again this season, it would have to be either in the playoffs or play-in tournament, depending on how their records finish.
The Mavs return to action on Sunday when they face the Indiana Pacers, beginning a four-game Eastern Conference road trip.
