Dallas Mavericks: 2018 NBA Draft grades

No. 3: Luka Doncic, Slovenia (via Atlanta Hawks)

Guard Luka Doncic brings an international flavor that’s already familiar within the franchise thanks to Dirk Nowitzki and his German roots. That was back in 1998, when the Mavericks were coming off a 20-62 season.

Fast word to the 2018 NBA Draft and things look eerily similar with Nowitzki on the roster. The Mavericks posted a 24-58 record in 2017-18 and a lottery pick was their ultimate prize. Now, the acquisition of Luka Doncic looks to point the ship in the right direction for Dallas.

The 19-year-old EuroLeague star averaged 14.5 points, 5.2 rebounds and 4.6 assists per game on his way to winning the EuroLeague MVP award and the EuroLeague championship in 2017-18 with Real Madrid.

At 6’6″ and 218 pounds, Doncic has peaked at the right time on the European circuit in just three seasons as a pro. Now, he’s the heir apparent to Dirk Nowitzki and in his final season, Dirk will be tasked with nurturing a star in the making.

The Mavericks are certainly in need of a shooting guard after Dennis Smith Jr. looked alone on an island in the backcourt for much of the season. Seth Curry and Aaron Harrison will both be unrestricted free agents this offseason, leaving the off-guard starting role open for Doncic to take.

Doncic’s versatility will also be something to keep an eye on. He has playmaking ability in his arsenal along with a high IQ on the defensive side of the ball. Let’s see if it pans out.

Grade: A