The Dallas Mavericks are in serious trouble right now.
No one has been able to overcome a 0-3 deficit in the NBA playoffs, let alone in the NBA Finals.
Luka Doncic has left something to be desired during the series, and while his numbers have been impressive, the eye test hasn’t.
For years, Doncic has been heavily criticized for his body language, tantrums, and constant complaints about referees.
He had been significantly better and more mature this season, but he went back to his old ways in Game 3.
That’s why former NBA star Tim Hardaway called him out and urged him to be more mature.
Talking on The Carton Show, Hardaway urged Doncic to stop yelling and complaining about the referees after every play, as they control the game and he needs them to be on his side, not against him.
.@HardawaySr says Luka Doncic has a big lesson to learn after the Finals:
“You gotta stop yelling at the refs because the refs control the game. I hope he takes a long look at himself.” pic.twitter.com/sIPVJyxcR0
— The Carton Show (@TheCartonShow) June 13, 2024
More than that, Hardaway thinks that Doncic needs to show some pride and put some effort in on the defensive end of the floor, as the Celtics were picking on him and attacking him all night long.
Doncic has never been known for his defensive prowess, but he has put a lot of work on that end of the floor in the playoffs, so he’s proven that he can do it.
He’s one of the best players in the league by a significant stretch, and that’s not going to change.
But he needs to stop being his biggest enemy, and he’ll have to keep his emotions in check if he wants to get back to this stage and, more importantly, win.
NEXT:
Magic Johnson Reacts To Celtics’ Game 3 Win Over Mavericks