luka doncic

Luka Doncic Gets Honest About Mavs Struggles Since Kyrie Trade

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The Dallas Mavericks fan base expected the Luka Doncic and Kyrie Irving pairing to shine. However, shining has been far from what they’ve seen. The Mavericks are 1-4 in their last five games. Dropping a shootout to the Atlanta Hawks on Sunday, 132-130. The offense doesn’t seem to be the issue with this team. Now, stopping the other team looks to be the Achilles heel. In their last five games, the Mavericks have allowed 110 points or more. That number isn’t a recipe for success for any team.

The frustration is visible on the court and is being shared off the court too. Doncic has shared his frustrations with the media over the last month. As well as, Irving being vocal about what’s going wrong in Dallas. It’s no secret that Irving isn’t afraid to share his feelings. Irving has found himself in media cycles over the past year for more than just basketball. Many believed the Mavericks were taking a significant risk in bringing in the former NBA champion. A chance that Mark Cuban felt didn’t outweigh the reward. Now Dallas finds itself with an All-Star cast but no playoff appearance to show for it. How did they get here?

Luka Doncic Claims Defensive Struggles Are Costing Mavericks

Luka Doncic #77 and Kyrie Irving #2 of the Dallas Mavericks react against the Atlanta Hawks during the second quarter at State Farm Arena on April 02, 2023 in Atlanta, Georgia. (Photo by Kevin C. Cox/Getty Images)

The answer is easy to find. However, just because the answer is easy doesn’t mean it is fixable. “It’s every time the same problem,” Doncic stated. “The offense is fine. But if we give up 130 points in four quarters, that’s hard to win.” The defensive struggles of this team will not be fixed overnight. The organization is coming to the realization that this season is a failure. The biggest issue may not be the combo of Luka Doncic and Kyrie Irving. The issues could come from the other three positions. Many forget that just because a team has an amazing duo, there are still three other players on the floor. Dwight Powell, Reggie Bullock, and Tim Hardaway Jr. also shoulder some blame.

The 2022-23 season has been a failure. However, that doesn’t necessarily mean burning this down and starting from scratch. Kyrie and Luka can still be a successful backcourt leading the Mavericks to the playoffs next season. While the team can look to the future, everyone knows that some change is inevitable. How can the Mavericks bolster their roster for the 2023-24 season? Can the Mavericks keep Luka and Kyrie together? Will Dallas be an enticing destination for free agents this summer? Let us know your thoughts on the Mavericks in the comment section below. For the latest NBA news, stay locked in with HNHH.

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Jordan Luka 1 Dressed In Colorful Hues For Easter

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Luka Doncic has been playing great this season, and he has done so in the Jordan Luka 1. Overall, this is his very first attempt at a signature shoe. In fact, it is a very formidable one. So far, fans have been quite impressed with what he has delivered, and there is no doubt that the Jordan Luka 2 will also be great. However, for now, Jumpman is focused on growing its offerings of the Luka 1. With a potential playoff birth on the horizon, now is as good a time as ever for Jordan Brand to truly bring the heat.

Over these past few months, the Jordan Luka 1 has proven to be a solid conduit for creativity. The brand has showcased a ton of colorful offerings, and fans are very happy with what they have seen. Subsequently, it seems like Jumpman wants to keep that trend going. That is especially true when you consider how Easter is right around the corner. This is a time when pastel colors are plentiful, and no one does that aesthetic on a shoe better than Jordan Brand. Consequently, it should come as no surprise that they are here with the Jordan Luka 1 “Easter.”

“Easter” Jordan Luka 1

Jordan Luka 1
Image via Nike

Immediately upon looking at this shoe, you are greeted with something that is exceptionally colorful. Firstly, the base of this sneaker is a gorgeous shade of teal. Moreover, this shoe then has some purple overlays on the top and the back heel. Lastly, we get some pink on the midsole which truly adds to the overall aesthetic of the sneaker. It is a fantastic look that will definitely appeal to fans who have a penchant for something with a bit more pizazz. Whether or not it takes off, still remains to be seen.

At the time of writing this, the shoe does not have an official release date. However, it is expected to drop around Easter time for a price of $110 USD. This is a very good deal for a shoe of this caliber. Let us know what you think of the latest Luka 1, in the comments below. Additionally, stay tuned to HNHH for more news from around the sneaker world.

More Photos

Image via Nike
Jordan Luka 1
Image via Nike

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Luka Doncic & Devin Booker Get Into Heated Exchange

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Luka Doncic and Devin Booker got into a heated exchange during the Phoenix Suns’ 130-126 win over the Dallas Mavericks at the American Airlines Center on Sunday. The back and forth occurred after Doncic missed a game-tying layup with just 3.1 seconds left on the clock. Booker downplayed the incident after the game, explaining that it was just a heated moment between competitors.

“You guys say you don’t want everybody to be friendly-friendly,” Booker said, as noted by AZCentral’s Duane Rankin. “There you go, we got some smoke … It’s just two competitors going at it. Everybody speaks on how friendly the NBA is right now and don’t like that. I have no problem with Luka on or off the court, but when we’re competing, we’re competing.” Booker finished the game with 36 points.

Luka Doncic & Devin Booker

DALLAS, TEXAS – DECEMBER 05: Luka Doncic #77 of the Dallas Mavericks is guarded by Devin Booker #1 of the Phoenix Suns in the second half at American Airlines Center on December 05, 2022 in Dallas, Texas. (Photo by Richard Rodriguez/Getty Images)

Doncic admitted that he was upset Booker waited until the end of the game to start trash-talking. “It’s fine, it’s just a competitive game,” he said. “It’s all good. Just next time, don’t wait until there’s three seconds left to talk.” He finished with an inefficient 34 points, scoring on only 8-of-23 from the floor including 1-of-9 from 3-point range. Doncic also praised the Suns’ roster in general. “I mean, they’re incredible,” he said. “Those two guys are one of the best [duos] in the league, Book and KD. But I love it. It’s competitive. I think today was a great game to watch.” Tim Hardaway Jr. also admitted “the bad blood is still there” between the Suns and the Mavs. The two teams faced off in the second round of the playoffs last season.

The Mavericks currently rank seventh in the Western Conference standings, while the Suns are in fourth. The Suns acquired superstar Kevin Durant from the Brooklyn Nets prior to the trade deadline. The Mavs, on the other head, brought in Durant’s former Nets teammate, Kyrie Irving.

The Altercation

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Kyrie Irving & Luka Doncic Secure First Win Together

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When Kyrie Irving was traded to the Dallas Mavericks just a few weeks ago, fans were curious to see how that would work out. Overall, Irving is someone who has had some issues when it comes to gelling with his teammates. However, he is now playing with Luka Doncic, who some feel is an MVP candidate. One would have to assume that these two would become a dynamic duo. Sure, Luka might be ball dominant, but he has never truly had a superstar teammate. Now that he has that, Mavericks fans should be very excited about a potential postseason run.

Unfortunately, their first two games together weren’t amazing. While Luka and Kyrie had solid individual performances, the team lost two games in a row. Subsequently, the All-Star break came which allowed both players to get some time off. Furthermore, it gave them some time to hang out off of the court. As it turns out, this worked out perfectly for them as on Thursday night, they secured their first win together.

Kyrie & Luka Pop Off

While playing against the lowly San Antonio Spurs, Luka and Kyrie were able to combine for 51 points. Luka finished with 28 while Kyrie had 23. Overall, it was a blowout win for the Mavericks who were playing against a Spurs team that has lost 15 in a row. Throughout the game, Kyrie and Luka showcased some great chemistry, and it is clear that they are going to dominate for the rest of the year. Whether or not they can make a deep playoff run still remains to be seen. After all, the West is a deep conference right now, and it would be a very tough road to the NBA Finals.

This is a bit of an experiment for the Mavericks. Kyrie is going to become a free agent this summer, and he could choose to leave the franchise entirely. If that is the case, then the Mavs have just one shot to make this work. Overall, this trade was an indication that Dallas is going all in. Let us know whether or not you think it will pay off, in the comments below. Additionally, stay tuned to HNHH for more news and updates from around the sports world.

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NYC Mayor Eric Adams Shades Kyrie Irving: ‘One Player Can Bring Down the Synergy’

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NYC Mayor Eric Adams

New York City mayor Eric Adams has jokes. Before Kyrie Irving was moved to the Dallas Mavericks, Spectrum News NY1’s Pat Kiernan asked the mayor what he would do about the Brooklyn Nets’ situation. Mayor Adams’s plan was to sabotage another team with his presence.

“I will find the team that beats us the most and send him to that team, because then we’ll start beating that team,” Adams said. “It’s about synergy in energy. No matter how much talent you have, your ability to interact with your colleagues is more important.”

He added, “One player can bring down the synergy of the team. And so I would send him to the team that beats us the most so we can start winning better.”

Days after requesting a trade from the Brooklyn Nets, Kyrie Irving officially became a member of the Dallas Mavericks.

After unsuccessfully negotiating a contract extension, Irving informed the franchise he would like to be moved by the Feb. 9 deadline or risk him leaving for nothing in free agency.

According to The Athletic, Irving was offered a contract extension with stipulations, but that was declined. “Principle differences” emerged after Irving declined the deal.

In return for Irving, the Nets will receive Spencer Dinwiddie, Dorian Finney-Smith, a first-round and multiple second-round picks.

The post NYC Mayor Eric Adams Shades Kyrie Irving: ‘One Player Can Bring Down the Synergy’ appeared first on The Source.

SOURCE SPORTS: Kyrie Irving Traded to Dallas Mavericks for Dinwiddie, Finney-Smith & More

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Kyrie Nets

Days after requesting a trade from the Brooklyn Nets, Kyrie Irving is officially a member of the Dallas Mavericks and Luka Doncic has a new running mate.

Kyrie Irving wants out of Brooklyn. After unsuccessfully negotiating a contract extension, Irving informed the franchise he would like to be moved by the Feb. 9 deadline or risk him leaving for nothing in free agency.

According to The Athletic, Irving was offered a contract extension with stipulations, but that was declined. “Principle differences” emerged after Irving declined the deal.

In return for Irving, the Nets will receive Spencer Dinwiddie, Dorian Finney-Smith, a first-round and multiple second-round picks.

The post SOURCE SPORTS: Kyrie Irving Traded to Dallas Mavericks for Dinwiddie, Finney-Smith & More appeared first on The Source.

SOURCE SPORTS: Luka Doncic Drops 53 While Engaged in ‘Chirping’ with Pistons Asst. Coach

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Luka Doncic Drops 53 While Engaged in 'Chirping' with Pistons Asst. Coach

Luka Doncic dropped 53 points on the Detroit Pistons and got their whole bench in an uproar. After ceiling the 111-105 win, Doncic strolled past the Pistons bench and entered a conversation with Pistons assistant coach Jerome Allen.

Heading to the bench Doncic chuckled at the coach, providing details of what was said in postgame to ESPN.

“I mean, since the first quarter, he was chirping,” Doncic said. “You know I’ll chirp back. From the first quarter, he was chirping. I don’t want to say the words. I have no problem with that. It’s basketball. It gets me going for sure.”

Pistons head coach, Dwane Casey, downplayed the interaction. “I liked it. I thought it really got us going, and that’s the way it should be with competitive guys. Doncic is competitive as heck. I love the way he plays, the way he carries himself, and I love the way our guys responded. They weren’t intimidated. So it’s all good. It was clean, nothing dirty about it.”

You can see the full moment and Doncic highlights below.

The post SOURCE SPORTS: Luka Doncic Drops 53 While Engaged in ‘Chirping’ with Pistons Asst. Coach appeared first on The Source.

Luka Doncic Cops Monstrous $250K Tank

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Luka Doncic has been running the NBA this season. Sure, his Mavericks don’t have the best roster, however, Doncic is carrying that team on a nightly basis. Just about a month ago, he came through with that epic 60-21-10 game that was unprecedented. Overall, he could be the leading candidate for the MVP trophy.

Having said that, Doncic stands to make a lot of money over the next few years. He is a top-five player in the league, and he is being paid as such. In just a few years, he will be staring down a Super Max deal, and only time will tell whether or not he will still be in Dallas when he signs it.

Luka Doncic #77 of the Dallas Mavericks dribbles against the Portland Trail Blazers during the second half at Moda Center on January 14, 2023 in Portland, Oregon. (Photo by Steph Chambers/Getty Images)

Luka Doncic Buys Crazy Vehicle

When you have a lot of money, sometimes it is hard to find something to spend it on. Well, it appears as though Doncic has opted for a Hellfire Apocalypse, which might as well be a military-grade tank. According to TMZ, Doncic paid a whopping $250K for this thing.

Down below, you can see a pretty clear video of this thing. Overall, it is massive as it looks like a hybrid between a jeep and an actual tank. Additionally, there are six wheels here, which makes this even more impressive. Moreover, the vehicle has 850 horsepower, night vision, a safe, and a massive stereo system that could shatter a few windows.

Just a few days ago, Doncic pulled up to a Mavericks game in this thing. His peers were very impressed with the new whip, and there is no doubt he will turn heads on the streets of Dallas.

Let us know what you think of this new car, in the comments section down below. As always, keep it locked to HNHH as we will keep you updated on the latest news from around the sports world.

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Luka Doncic & Giannis Antetokounmpo To Face Off In International Game For First Time

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Luka Doncic and Giannis Antetokounmpo continue to be two of the most elite players in the NBA. So far this season, the Greek Power Forward is averaging 32 points and nearly 12 rebounds per game. Comparatively, Doncic is averaging 34 points, to go along with his nearly nine rebounds and assists per game.

On Sunday (January 1), the Greek Basketball Federation announced that the two will face off in a friendly game. The game is set to be in Athens, Greece on August 4. The match will be between the two stars’ home countries – Greece vs. Slovenia.

Luka Doncic #77 of the Dallas Mavericks looks to dribble while being guarded by Giannis Antetokounmpo #34 of the Milwaukee Bucks during the second half of a game at Fiserv Forum on November 27, 2022 in Milwaukee, Wisconsin. (Photo by John Fisher/Getty Images)

The 2023 FIBA World Cup is taking place from August 25-September 10. The game between their countries will serve as a preparation game for the event. The tournament is expecting both players to play for their home countries, making this the first time the two will play each other in an international game.

Doncic is fresh off of his historic night last week, dropping an insane stat line. On Tuesday (December 27), he dropped 60 points, 21 rebounds and 10 assists in the Mavericks’ 126-121 win over the New York Knicks. The 23-year-old is the first player in NBA history to end a game with this stat line.

Both players did play in the 2022 FIBA EuroBasket last year. However, Germany is responsible for eliminating Greece, while Poland eliminated Slovenia. Both took place in the quarterfinals. Although it’s just a friendly match, it will certainly be entertaining to watch these two All-Stars square off in new territory.

Are you looking forward to Doncic and Antetokounmpo playing each other in international play? Comment down below. Finally, make sure to stay tuned to HNHH for all of the latest updates.

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Skip Bayless Finds A Way To Downplay Luka Doncic’s Historic Game

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Skip Bayless is a generational hater. It isn’t common for someone to be as much of a hater as Skip is. However, Bayless is a one-of-a-kind individual. Whether or not that is for better or for worse, is really up to you to decide. Regardless, it has made Bayless some big bucks.

Bayless typically loves to hate LeBron. Although, with LeBron looking to retire in a few years, Bayless needs a new target. For now, it seems like that target is Luka Doncic of the Dallas Mavericks. No matter how well he does in a particular game, you can be sure Bayless will say something about it.

Sports Commentor Skip Bayless attends the 16th Annual Webby Awards on May 21, 2012 in New York City. (Photo by Jamie McCarthy/WireImage for The Webby Awards)

Skip Bayless Vs. Luka

Last night, Doncic scored 60 points while notching 21 rebounds and 10 assists. No player in the history of the NBA has ever had this statline. Even Wilt Chamberlain has never accomplished this. However, it still was not enough to make Skip happy as he delivered a baffling take on Undisputed.

“I’ll go to an 8 on the impressive scale. We have to take into account the opposition, which was an embarrassment. The Knicks were overmatched against Luka,” Bayless said. “Four of the five best players weren’t even playing for the Knicks. The Knicks played all of OT with the same 5 guys. They were overpowered and overmatched, it’s shameful.”

Instead of giving Luka props, he decided to just blame the other team for his great performance. Overall, it is yet another case of some amazing generational hating from Bayless. At this point, you just have to expect it.

If you actually appreciate quality basketball, then you can see Luka’s best highlights, below. Let us know what you thought of Luka’s game, in the comments section.

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