Can Luka Doncic and Kyrie Irving be the cornerstones of a title contender?

Dallas Mavericks, Luka Doncic, Kyrie Irving
Dallas Mavericks, Luka Doncic, Kyrie Irving | Sam Hodde/GettyImages
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Luka Doncic and Kyrie Irving need to use each other more to become title contender

In the early stages of the Luka and Kyrie partnership, it has felt like an awkward first date often. One is running the offense, while the other watches from the corner. The actions using both players have been limited, but incredibly successful when run.

Zach Lowe reported the Second Spectrum numbers on his podcast over the first 12 games. The fact that they have only 37 pick and rolls together in 12 games is insane, but the numbers are beyond elite. Hear Lowe describe them below.

Will those numbers hold up over a larger sample? Bet on no because they are something out of a video game, but getting those two involved in the play is a nightmare for any defense.

Luka runs 10.3 possessions per game as a pick-and-roll ball-handler, and Irving runs 6.0. That is over 16 per game for the season, but only three each night involve both players. Getting that number up to eight would do wonders for the Mavericks and their hopes of winning games.

For this duo to reach their ceiling, it has to become a partnership on offense. They cannot be taking turns out on the court trying to burn the defense. They need time and repetitions together, but it could be something special if both players commit to it.

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