Luka Doncic and Daniel Gafford have undeniably emerged as one of the most potent guard-center duos in the NBA, and their impressive performances in the second half of the season have solidified their status as a historic pairing for the Dallas Mavericks.
Doncic’s Scoring Title:
Doncic of Dallas Mavericks finished the regular season as the main scorer in NBA, reaching a remarkable 33.9 points per single game. He led this statistic by 1.77 percentage points above Giannis Antetokounmpo of the Milwaukee Bucks, who came in second. As for versatility, DOncic proved to be very diverse, as he ranked 2nd in 3-pointers made, which is 4.8 per game, and 3rd in assists, which is 9.8 per game. As depicted in these stats, this is the career-highest ever for the Mavericks’ star.
Gafford’s Shooting Prowess:
Daniel Gafford has been the biggest surprise on the Mavericks squad, and is also currently the player with the highest field goal percentage in the league at 72.5%! This playoff-level is shooting percentage being ranked as the third-highest shooting percentage for a single season in NBA is something so remarkable and special. While his performance has not waned, Gafford has performed well in Dallas, taking 11.2 points on even higher 78% shooting rate since playing only 29 games.
Rookie Record for Dereck Lively II:Rookie Record for Dereck Lively II:
The presence of Lively II, a big man with rookie status who recorded 74.7% shooting, the best shooting percentage for a first-year player ever, gives the roster extra bulk in the frontcourt.
Team Success:
As the Mavericks added Gafford in February during the deadline, the team went on to post a 21-8 effort and placed second in the NBA rankings, which allowed them to make the playoffs two times in the last three seasons. This success has helped the Mavericks secure first place in the chart With our resounding win over the rival team, we are well-positioned to be a fearsome top seed heading into the playoffs.
Playoff Challenge Ahead:
Although Doncic, Gafford, and the Mavs are of good caliber throughout the regular season, there is still a time-old postseason problem for them. They will face the Clippers in the first round and have a familiar opponent from their previous trip to the playoffs this season. With the regretful past playoffs they had against the Clippers, the Mavericks will seek to end their nightmares and play a deeper playoff run.
Final Thoughts:
Luka Doncic and Daniel Gafford have not only elevated their individual performances but have also transformed the Mavericks into a formidable playoff contender. With their historic achievements and the addition of promising rookies like Dereck Lively II, the Mavericks have the talent and momentum to challenge any team in the postseason. As they prepare to face the Clippers, all eyes will be on Doncic, Gafford, and their teammates as they look to rewrite their playoff narrative and pursue championship glory.
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