Mavericks: Luka Doncic voted top young star to build around by execs

Dallas Mavericks superstar Luka Doncic was voted the best young player to build around by execs polled by ESPN. Find out more here.

Dallas Mavericks point guard Luka Doncic arguably improved more than any player in the NBA this season. The reigning Rookie of the Year made the jump into an MVP candidate. He won Player of the Month for November. Doncic averaged 28.7 points, 9.3 rebounds, and 8.7 assists per game as a 21-year-old.

The improvements were evident from day one. He was in better shape. Doncic committed to driving the ball. The offseason work on finishing with his left hand immediately paid dividends. It allowed him to improve his efficiency and become one of the most dangerous offensive weapons in the league.

Luka also helped the Mavericks win. They had 40 victories in the 67 games they played before the season was halted. The Mavs were a lock to make the playoffs.

ESPN decided to poll 20 NBA people (a combination of executives, scouts, and coaches) on which young star they would want to build their team around. They gave four options. Second-year players Luka and Trae Young along with rookies Zion Williamson and Ja Morant. Fans can see the full results here.

Unsurprisingly, Doncic was the runaway winner. He nabbed 17 of the 20 first-place votes. Luka was second on the other three ballots. None of the other players are in the MVP conversation at this point. It is difficult to bet against that plus there is not much higher to go.

One Western Conference executive had this to say about Doncic.

"“Luka has size and elite playmaking and shooting right this second. He impacts winning. I believe his game is not only sustainable, but has the ability to continue to get better.”"

Dallas Mavericks fans know just how special Luka Doncic is each and every night. The fact that he will continue to improve should have your mouth watering a bit.

Being an annual top-five player will have the Mavs in contention for the next decade-plus. Buckle up because the fun is just beginning.