Paul Pierce Challenges Luka Doncic’s Defensive Mindset Beyond Weight Issues

Paul Pierce Challenges Luka Doncic’s Defensive Mindset Beyond Weight Issues

Luka Doncic, a standout offensive player for the Lakers, faces consistent criticism for his defensive performance. Despite averaging 1.8 steals during the 2024-25 season, he struggled defensively in the playoffs, particularly against Jaden McDaniels, who shot 68.8% when matched against him. NBA veteran Paul Pierce argues that Doncic's issues on defense stem from a lack of mental commitment rather than his physical weight, emphasizing the importa…

Paul Pierce questions Luka Doncic’s mentality on defense: ‘That’s the issue with him, not his weight’

For as great an offensive player as Los Angeles Lakers guard Luka Doncic has been ever since he set foot in the NBA, he has been on the receiving end of criticism throughout his career for his play on the other end of the floor. The fact that Doncic averaged 1.8 steals per game with the Lakers and Dallas Mavericks during the 2024-25 regular season doesn’t change that he has plenty of room for improvement on defense. For example, he had a very di…