Mavericks: 5 ways Luka Doncic can emulate Dirk Nowitzki in the playoffs

How Dallas Mavericks star Luka Doncic can emulate Dirk Nowitzki: 1. Continue to grow and add tools

Every offseason, Dirk would go off and work with his mentor, Holger Geschwindner. The pair would add something new to the toolbox each year. Be it defense, a new shot, or just improving his body. Nowitzki got better every year, and Luka Doncic needs to do the same.

The 21-year-old plays at an incredible level, but there are several things he needs to improve to become the best player in the NBA.

His free throw shooting is improving but still needs work. Dirk was outstanding from the line. Anytime he stepped up, it was an automatic two points. Luka should be striving to reach that level.

Nowitzki struggled on defense as does Doncic. Dirk was a seven-footer with limited mobility, but Doncic is more athletic. The 21-year-old should continue growing on the defensive end. Fans have seen improvement this season from Luka.

Doncic has added new tools this season. He is using Dirk’s one-legged fadeaway to get buckets inside. That is just one weapon that Luka has put into his ever-expanding game. Expect him to continue improving, just like Dirk. The Mavericks have a special one in Luka Doncic. Hopefully, he can lead them to their second championship.