Dallas Mavericks: Luka Doncic gets first triple-double of career

The Dallas Mavericks couldn’t find an answer for Giannis Antetokounmpo of the Milwaukee Bucks, which is a shame because the loss took away from the excitement of Luka Doncic‘s first career triple-double.

It was nowhere near the spectacle that nightly “Luka Magic” has become, but the young rookie did something that only one other NBA player in history has ever done. What makes things even better is that he is already undoubtedly better than the one other player that stopped him from holding this title. Luka and Markelle Fultz are the only teenagers in NBA history with a triple-double.

Doncic was upset after the game against Milwaukee in which this event happened. As reported by Tim MacMahon, Doncic was happy to have his first triple-double, but he would rather be winning the game than accomplishing personal achievements. The 19-year old has proven time and time again that he is mature well beyond his age,

Although Luka put together one of the most impressive stat lines of his season so far, a closer look at the numbers shows that the afternoon did not go as well as it could have. The Pacers on Saturday and then the Bucks on Monday both had success slowing Luka down, something that has not been easy this year.

Luka’s stat line ended with 18 points, 11 rebounds, 10 assists, one steal and one block, along with three turnovers. His shooting numbers were less spectacular, with a slash line of .353/.400/.800. His poor shooting has been documented on a number of occasions this year, but he continues to grow and learn the game better and better everyday.

Aside from the triple-double from Luka, the Mavs also had DeAndre Jordan with a nice double-double of 15 points and 15 rebounds. The Greek Freak was the main threat to the Mavs all game, finishing with 31 points, 15 rebounds and 5 assists. He also coughed up 5 turnovers and committed 4 fouls.

With the return of Dennis Smith Jr. looming, it will be interesting to see if some of Luka’s numbers will continue to flourish or if he will be subject to falling a little bit statistically in order to keep DSJ happy and get him involved in the game more than usual. Don’t expect Luka to care too much if his numbers are the only things suffering.

The Dallas Mavericks follow-up this big performance quickly as they return home in time for a meeting with the Los Angeles Clippers tonight at the American Airlines Center. Luka will try to get his hot-hand back as they search for a win to end the tough losing streak the team is currently in.