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3. Luka Doncic

Last week's rank: 3

Despite missing the Mavericks' last two games, Luka Doncic will retain the No. 3 spot by a slim margin.

Doncic has now missed two critical games on the Mavericks schedule. The team has kept afloat despite their superstar missing time, but after losing to the shorthanded Pelicans, its clear Dallas needs him back.

In his last game played the Mavericks would embarrassingly lose to the Memphis Grizzlies in blowout fashion. Memphis was without Ja Morant and Jaren Jackson Jr. Doncic still dazzled with 31 points, but it was to no avail as the Mavs got dominated inside the paint.

Doncic has proven to be this team's leader, as they have fallen to 2-3 without Doncic in their lineup. This season, Doncic has not only proven to be the best player on the Mavericks but one of the best players in general, as he is second in the total scoring column.

Doncic will need to rebound after missing two critical games and dropping off in the month of January. It shouldn't take long for the Mavericks to get back on track and start winning games again with Doncic back from injury.

Defensively, Doncic has looked much improved since last year. He has had multiple games where he has led the Mavericks in steals and blocks. He has also done a much better job defending around the perimeter and keeping defenders guessing. Dallas will play the Pelicans again on Monday, where Doncic is doubtful to play.