Following a 3-2 start to the NBA season, the Dallas Mavericks’ recent loss to the Houston Rockets has prompted star player Luka Doncic to reflect on his performance and its impact on the club.
In the post-game press conference, Doncic accepted responsibility for the Mavericks’ slow start, notably in the first quarter, which concluded 21-34. “That’s on me,” Doncic said. “I got off to a horrible start, so I’ll accept responsibility because I need to improve. “I know I can do it; all I have to do is concentrate and play my game.”
Doncic, who missed the preseason, said his present physical condition influenced his performance. “I didn’t have preseason, so I’m just trying to get back into my rhythm,” the player said. Despite the loss, he maintained an optimistic demeanour, adding, “In the fourth quarter, I felt a little more like myself. That is always a wonderful thing. But clearly, we didn’t win; it wasn’t good enough.”
While accepting responsibility, Doncic scored an incredible 29 points in 38 minutes, outscoring everyone on the court. His backcourt teammate, Kyrie Irving, also added 28 points, eight rebounds, and seven assists, keeping the Mavericks in the game until the end.
The Mavericks will seek to recoup over the weekend before hosting the Orlando Magic on Sunday and the Indiana Pacers on Monday at the American Airlines Centre. Coach Jason Kidd will rely on Doncic and his team to rediscover their flow and gain momentum as they strive for a solid season start.