Dallas Mavericks: Luka Doncic is ready for year two

Dallas Mavericks star Luka Doncic posted a few pictures from a recent practice on his Instagram. They showed why he is ready for a massive second season.

Dallas Mavericks supporters are hyped about the upcoming season. The main reason is finding out what is next from their new star, Luka Doncic. The 20-year-old exceeded all expectations last season in route to a historic performance that allowed him to win Rookie of the Year.

Doncic’s second season will feature a new running mate by his side. Kristaps Porzingis should be healthy. The 7’3 big man will significantly improve the Mavs defense. He also provides floor spacing that few others can match.

Training camp is a few days away from officially kicking off, but the Mavericks are already hitting the court together. That is positive from every standpoint. Luka Doncic took to Instagram to show off multiple pictures of him balling at the workout which fans can view here.

Conditioning matters

Dallas Mavericks fans will immediately point to Luka’s slimmer look. He took a bit of time off heading into his rookie season because his former club Real Madrid played right up until draft night. Doncic was admittedly carrying a bit of extra weight, but that is gone now.

It will first pay dividends in Luka’s minutes. He played 32.2 per game last season, but fans should expect him in the 34 to 35 range now. The Mavs want and need their star player on the court especially in games where Porzingis sits out.

The improved conditioning will also help him withstand the 82-game grind that is an NBA season. Consider this, Luka shot 37.4 percent from 3-point range and 76.2 percent on his free throws during the 2018 portion of last year’s schedule. The rookie wore down late in the season, and his percentages suffered. Doncic will be above average in both categories during his second year.

It is wild to think that Luka Doncic could be significantly improved this season because he is in top shape. The rest of the NBA is dreading that fact.

Mavs fans should also expect Luka to have a few new tricks up his sleeve too. There will be plenty more highlights. Expect the wins to come as well. Dallas wants to make the playoffs. Doncic has won at every stop in his basketball career so far. Betting against him does not appear wise.

The Smoking Cuban will have all things Luka Doncic covered this season plus analysis on the Dallas Mavericks that cannot be found anywhere else, so fans should check back often.