
Takeaway from Dallas Mavericks Game 6 playoff win over Jazz: 2. Attacking Luka
Utah also went back to attacking Luka Doncic in the pick and roll. The Jazz used this strategy frequently during their regular-season meetings, and it helped them create open looks in Game 6.
The Mavericks had Doncic on Royce O’Neale and the Jazz got him involved frequently in the pick and rolls in the first half. Dallas is always going to have Doncic guarding the opposition's fourth or fifth offensive option because they do not want Luka switching on to the ball against guards.
The Mavericks had Doncic guarding Rudy Gobert in the second half as they went smaller. Will they find success against the Suns using their three-guard and two-wing lineup? Can Chris Paul and Devin Booker get Doncic defending on the ball?
The Jazz went away from it in the second half, but it will be interesting to see if the Phoenix Suns try to exploit it in the second round. Doncic answered the bell with two steals and two blocks. He has improved tremendously on the defensive end of the floor, but forcing him to play defense could impact his offense in late-game situations.
The Utah Jazz had some success attacking Luka Doncic in Game 6, but the Mavericks won anyway. It is something to monitor as the playoffs move forward.