Stephen A. Smith isn't one to hold back his opinions. After a big Wrestlemania weekend at Sofi Stadium, Smith returned to First Take. One of the topics discussed on the show today was the failure of the Dallas Mavericks. Many have come to their conclusions on the struggles of the team. However, Smith believes that one of Dallas' stars is to blame for the team's recent downfall. No, Smith isn't laying the blame on Kyrie Irving. But Smith does believe that Luka Doncic may be to blame.
In his point today, Smith targeted Luka's attitude on and after the court when the Mavericks lose a game. Smith stated, "I don't have a single negative syllable to utter about Kyrie Irving. He is not the problem in Dallas. ... Luka is the one, dare I say, that has a huge question mark hovering over him, and it's nothing statistical." Stephen A. said he's never seen a player look more out of shape at the end of the season than at the beginning, referring to Luka's physique.
Stephen A. Smith Cites Luka's Mentality As Mavericks Downfall
Maybe Stephen A. Smith has a reason to believe these things. However, it seems the mentality of the entire team looks down. Smith does cite that Luka still has amazing performances. But, Smith is of the notion that Luka has yet to learn how to be a leader. That is a very possible reason on Luka's part. It takes time for a player to grow into a leader. We've seen young players in the past have to grow up quicker than most to run a franchise. LeBron and Giannis are names that come to mind. Now Luka must take that next step as a leader.
When the season ends, the Mavericks fans will begin to hear stories. Sooner or later, the truth of the 2022-23 Mavericks will come to light. While one person can't be to blame for an entire team's failure. Someone will need to take accountability for this failure. So, just whose to blame for the failure of the Dallas Mavericks? Is it Luka? Is it the mid-season addition of Kyrie? Or is it maybe a failure from a coaching standpoint? Let us know in the comment section below what your thoughts are on the Mavericks. Stay with us here at HNHH for the latest news on sports.
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