Luka Dončić, since arriving in the NBA in 2018, has quickly established himself as one of the most dynamic and exciting players in the league. The Dallas Mavericks’ decision to trade for him in the 2018 NBA Draft has proven to be one of the most brilliant moves in recent memory. Luka’s blend of basketball IQ, skill, and versatility has made him the face of the Mavs, and he continues to deliver unforgettable moments on the court. With multiple playoff appearances, an MVP-caliber season, and spectacular individual feats, Luka has solidified himself as a generational talent. Here, we take a look back at Luka Dončić’s top 5 moments with the Dallas Mavericks that have captivated fans and cemented his place in NBA history.
1. 2019 Rookie of the Year Season
Luka Dončić’s first season in the NBA was a statement. After being selected third overall in the 2018 NBA Draft, expectations were high, and Luka exceeded them all. The 2018-2019 season was nothing short of magical for the rookie, as he quickly became the face of the Mavs. Luka averaged 21.2 points, 7.8 rebounds, and 6.0 assists per game, showcasing his all-around game and the basketball IQ that would later become his trademark.
In his first season, Luka led the Mavs to a competitive spot in the Western Conference, and his unique style of play had people drawing comparisons to some of the NBA’s greatest stars. His ability to control the tempo of the game, make clutch shots, and create for his teammates made it clear that he was not just a future star, but a present one. At the end of the season, Luka was named NBA Rookie of the Year, an award he undoubtedly earned with his consistent excellence. This award set the tone for what would be a brilliant career with the Mavs and solidified him as the cornerstone of the franchise.
2. 2019-2020: Luka’s Game-Winning Buzzer Beater vs. the Clippers
One of Luka Dončić’s most iconic moments came during the 2020 NBA playoffs in a tightly contested Game 4 against the Los Angeles Clippers. With the Mavs trailing the Clippers 2-1 in their first-round series, Luka needed to deliver something special. The game was tied in the final seconds, and the Mavs had one last chance to win it. With just 2.1 seconds left on the clock, Luka Dončić received the inbounds pass.
In one of the most dramatic moments in recent playoff history, Luka danced around a defender and launched a contested, off-balance three-pointer from near the logo. The ball sailed through the air as the buzzer sounded, and in one of the most thrilling sights, the ball swished through the net to give the Mavs a 135-133 win. Luka’s game-winning buzzer beater not only stunned the Clippers but also sent shockwaves throughout the NBA, as it was a moment of greatness from one of the youngest stars in the league. The shot became one of the signature moments of the playoffs and further solidified Luka’s reputation as a clutch performer.
3. 2021 All-Star Game Performance
Luka Dončić has quickly become a fan favorite, and his first All-Star Game appearance in 2020 was a testament to his rapid rise to stardom. However, it was his performance in the 2021 NBA All-Star Game that truly captured the attention of the basketball world. Luka had already made a name for himself with his regular-season performances, but the All-Star Game allowed him to showcase his skills on the biggest stage with some of the best players in the world.
In the 2021 All-Star Game, Luka Dončić proved that he was not just participating, but he was going to steal the spotlight. Luka was one of the leading players for Team LeBron and put on a show with his creativity, playmaking, and court vision. He finished the game with 8 points, 8 rebounds, and 7 assists, but it wasn’t the stats that impressed fans—it was the ease with which he controlled the game and the way he made the impossible look effortless.
Luka’s passing ability, in particular, stood out during the game, with several jaw-dropping no-look and behind-the-back assists. His performances during All-Star weekend elevated his status as one of the brightest young stars in the league and proved that he belonged among the very best in the NBA.
4. Luka Dončić’s Triple-Double Mastery
One of Luka’s defining characteristics is his ability to fill the stat sheet and affect every aspect of the game. As of the 2022 season, Luka had already posted a number of triple-doubles, cementing himself as one of the NBA’s most versatile and dynamic players. The triple-double—a statistical feat where a player records double-digit figures in three different categories—is a rarity in the NBA, and Luka has consistently delivered with his all-around play.
In his third season (2020-2021), Luka Dončić made headlines with his frequent triple-doubles. On January 13, 2021, Luka recorded one of his most impressive triple-doubles to date, finishing with 13 points, 10 assists, and 15 rebounds against the New Orleans Pelicans. This performance came just a day after he recorded a 31-point, 12-rebound, 9-assist game against the Houston Rockets. These types of performances have become common for Luka, and they highlight his incredible ability to impact all facets of the game.
Luka’s triple-double numbers are reminiscent of the greats like Magic Johnson and Oscar Robertson, and as he continues to rack up these performances, it is clear that he is on his way to becoming one of the most versatile players in NBA history. His playmaking, rebounding, and scoring abilities make him a threat on every possession, and he is able to consistently deliver jaw-dropping stat lines, further solidifying his place as one of the best in the game.
5. 2022 Playoff Performance Against the Utah Jazz
In the 2022 NBA Playoffs, Luka Dončić continued to show the world that he is built for the postseason. After missing the first three games of the series against the Utah Jazz due to injury, Luka returned in Game 4 and immediately made his presence felt. Despite being hampered by injury, Luka put on a masterclass performance in Game 4, leading the Mavericks to a 100-99 victory and giving them a 3-1 series lead.
Luka finished the game with 30 points, 10 rebounds, and 4 assists, taking over in the clutch moments and leading the Mavs to a critical win. His ability to come back from injury and deliver such a performance showed his mental toughness and competitiveness, qualities that have quickly become synonymous with his name. The Mavs would go on to eliminate the Jazz in the first round, and Luka’s leadership and postseason excellence were on full display, as he took over the series in ways only a player of his caliber can.
Conclusion
Luka Dončić’s time with the Dallas Mavericks has been nothing short of extraordinary. From his rookie season to his iconic game-winning buzzer beater against the Clippers, his triple-doubles, and his incredible playoff performances, Luka has cemented himself as one of the brightest stars in the NBA today. As the Mavs look to the future, there’s no telling how many more unforgettable moments Luka will create for his team and fans. One thing is for sure—Luka Dončić is here to stay, and his legacy with the Dallas Mavericks is only just beginning.
