Luka Doncic of the Dallas Mavericks is on the brink of setting a new NBA record, as he needs just 11 points to become the fastest player to reach 10,000 career points. He could achieve this milestone in his 358th game when the Mavericks face the Phoenix Suns on Christmas night, potentially breaking Donovan Mitchell’s current record of 410 games.
Doncic’s participation seems likely after he sat out a game against the Houston Rockets with a left quadriceps strain but returned with a dominant performance against the San Antonio Spurs, scoring 39 points along with 12 rebounds and 10 assists.
“Just rest in the fourth quarter; it’s always the best for me,” Doncic said. “I love it.”
His scoring spree has been remarkable, with 30 or more points in 12 of his last 13 games, setting a new franchise record with 11 consecutive games in this stretch. Doncic’s impressive December averages are 36 points, 11.3 assists, and 9.5 rebounds.
NBA NEWS & RUMORS: Luka Doncic, Dallas Mavericks, Kevin Durant, Phoenix Suns Updates
With Kyrie Irving sidelined due to a right heel contusion, Doncic has stepped up, leading the Mavericks to a resounding victory over the Spurs despite missing other key players like Josh Green and Maxi Kleber. Tim Hardaway Jr. and Dante Exum also stepped up in the win, contributing significantly to the team’s score.
Mavericks coach Jason Kidd noted the team’s improved shooting and resilience after a disappointing performance against Houston as they look ahead to the Christmas game against Phoenix.
“We shot the ball a lot better than we did (Friday) night,” Kidd said. “But a great character win, too. We could have felt sorry for ourselves about our performance (against Houston), but we turned the page. A much-needed win before we go to Phoenix for Christmas.”
NBA NEWS & RUMORS: Luka Doncic, Dallas Mavericks, Kevin Durant, Phoenix Suns Updates
Meanwhile, the Suns have been struggling, losing eight of their last 11 games. Despite Kevin Durant and Devin Booker’s efforts, the team has faced challenges, highlighted by their recent loss to the Sacramento Kings.
The Suns’ offseason acquisition Bradley Beal has been largely absent due to injuries, and Eric Gordon has expressed frustration over his limited role. Gordon, who turns 35 on Christmas Day, is known for his scoring ability and wants to discuss his role with coach Frank Vogel.
“We have to be better and improve our offensive execution,” Vogel said. “We are not playing well enough right now.”
NBA NEWS & RUMORS: Luka Doncic, Dallas Mavericks, Kevin Durant, Phoenix Suns Updates
Phoenix faces injury concerns with Gordon and Josh Okogie probable, while Jusuf Nurkic will miss the game for personal reasons. The matchup between the Mavericks and Suns is significant, considering Dallas’ surprising victory over Phoenix in the 2022 Western Conference Semifinals.
