Luka Doncic, Dirk NowitzkiLuka Doncic (Image Credits: Getty Images)
In a recent episode of Run it Back on Fanduel TV, former Mavericks guard JJ Barea was asked about his opinion on the ongoing debate about whether Dirk Nowitzki or Luka Doncic is the best Dallas Mavericks player. Barea was asked whether, in the future, Doncic could surpass Nowitzki as the greatest Mavericks player ever. He expressed that while Doncic is an exceptional player, he believes that Nowitzki will always hold the title of the greatest Maverick because he is an all-time Mav and played a significant role in shaping the identity of the team.

“No, Dirk Nowitzki is an all-time Mav forever. There’s no way… Luka could be the best player in the world forever, and Dirk would still be the [greatest] Mav of all time. He made the Mavericks what it is.” Barea said.

Barea clarified that his comments were not meant to offend Luka Doncic. He praised Nowitzki for his contributions to the Mavericks’ success. Under Nowitzki’s leadership, the Mavericks made 15 NBA postseason appearances, including their first NBA championship in 2011. Nowitzki, who won the NBA MVP award in 2007 and the NBA Finals MVP Award in 2011, is known for his scoring ability, impressive skills, outstanding long-range shooting, and iconic status.

Luka Doncic played a crucial role in the Mavericks’ NBA Finals appearance

Luka Doncic played a crucial role in the Mavericks’ success throughout the season, delivering back-to-back dominating performances. According to Statmuse, Doncic averaged 33.9 points, 9.8 assists, and 9.2 rebounds in 70 games during the regular season. In the 2024 playoffs, he averaged 29.0 points, 9.7 rebounds, and 8.5 assists in 19 games. Despite Doncic’s efforts, Dallas lost two straight games in the NBA Finals series against the Boston Celtics. During the press conference, Doncic took the blame for the losses, but Mavericks guard Kyrie Irving corrected him and included his own name in the team’s defeats.