Mavericks: Cade Cunningham draws Luka comps but idolizes Dirk Nowitzki

The Dallas Mavericks made a seamless transition from Dirk Nowitzki to Luka Doncic. The two superstars overlapped for one season. It was Dirk’s 21st and final in the NBA and the first for the teenage sensation. The two formed an incredible bond in that lone campaign and remain close.

Despite both being destined for greatness, neither Luka nor Dirk was the number one overall pick in their draft class. Arlington product Cade Cunningham is projected to top the draft in 2021. The 6’8 guard is an incredible talent that is being compared to the best number one picks in recent memory.

Cunningham met with the media on July 23 and shared his links to Luka and Dirk. Let us take a closer look at how the teenager relates to the Mavs superstars.

Cade Cunningham draws Luka Doncic comps but he idolizes Mavericks GOAT Dirk Nowitzki

Cunningham had this to say about Nowitzki during his media session.

The projected number one overall pick loves Dirk, but he often gets compared to current Mavericks superstar Luka Doncic. He asked about that during the session. See his response below.

Both players are big point guards that can handle the ball, make plays, score, and hit stepbacks. Fans looking to learn more about Cade Cunningham’s game should check out this piece (subscription required) from ESPN’s Mike Schmitz.

Cunningham is the projected number one overall pick in a loaded class. The 19-year-old only met with the Detroit Pistons because they have the top selection. The 2021 NBA Draft takes place on July 29. The Dallas Mavericks currently do not have a pick, but fans should tune in to see Cunningham be selected.

The Mavericks have a busy offseason ahead. They will attempt to improve their roster around Luka Doncic. New special advisor Dirk Nowitzki joins Nico Harrison, Jason Kidd, Michael Finley, Keith Grant, and owner Mark Cuban as the key decision-makers for Dallas. Stay tuned to see what they can pull off this summer.