5 things Luka Doncic must improve next season if the Dallas Mavericks want contend

3. Transition D

Fans know this is a massive problem for Luka. The Mavs committed the second-fewest turnovers in the league this season, but he allows the other team to get transition opportunities off missed baskets. Doncic’s penchant for arguing with the officials plays a factor here, but he was called "the worst transition defender in the history of basketball” by a scout, according to ESPN’s Tim MacMahon. Hear his quote below.

Say it is just two baskets per game where Luka does not get back on defense and the opposition gets an easy score. The Mavericks lost by four or fewer points or in overtime 14 times this season. Flip around even seven of those into wins, and Dallas finishes tied for fourth in the Western Conference with the Phoenix Suns.

They are a competitive team that could easily turn things around, but it is going to take improvements to their roster and on their mistakes.

There are zero reasons for Luka Doncic to be one of the worst transition defenders. He just does not hustle back on defense, especially when he is arguing a call. Number 77 is passionate and wants to win above all else. Improving his transition defense will help the Dallas Mavericks win significantly more than Doncic arguing with the officials.