Mavericks: Luka Doncic recognized as top 5 player in ESPN ranks

The Dallas Mavericks have made two straight playoff appearances, but superstar Luka Doncic has yet to advance past the first round. Through 13 postseason games, Doncic averages 33.5 points, 9.5 assists, and 8.8 rebounds on 49.4 percent shooting from the field and 39.2 percent on his threes making it hard to blame the 22-year-old for the team’s lack of playoff wins.

The Mavs tried to make a splash in improving his supporting cast this summer but had to settle for adding on the margins. Reggie Bullock, Sterling Brown, and Frank Ntilikina could all play meaningful roles for Dallas this season as they improved their wing depth and perimeter defense.

The organization is banking on internal growth too, including some from Luka. He is already a top-five player in the NBA, but there is room to grow, despite Doncic standing out even among the league’s best players. ESPN ran their top 100 player rankings this week, which concluded with the top five on Sept. 24. Where did Luka rank?

Dallas Mavericks star Luka Doncic sits 4th in ESPN player rankings

For the second straight season, ESPN ranked Doncic fourth on their list. It is difficult to argue as the only thing he is missing is playoff glory. Luka was first-team All-NBA in each of the last two seasons after running away with the Rookie of the Year award in 2019. The 22-year-old continues to improve and is on pace to be the best player in the NBA sooner rather than later.

Kristaps Porzingis and Tim Hardaway Jr. also earned spots in ESPN’s top 100 players.

Dallas Mavericks fans should be excited heading into the 2021-2022 season. Luka Doncic is locked up long-term and ready to lead his team on a deep playoff run. The team plans to put the ball in his hands and let him cook, which should be a blast to watch. How will new head coach Jason Kidd change things and help the team improve? Stay tuned to find out.