The Mavericks trailed by as many as 21 points in Game 3 but made a furious run, cutting the deficit to only three late in the fourth quarter. However, with 4:12 left, a frustrated Doncic stepped in front of a charging Jaylen Brown, fouling out for only the third time in his career and the first time in the playoffs.
Doncic’s actions were foolish, and they not only stalled a historic comeback attempt but also likely doomed the Mavericks’ chances moving forward. As everyone knows, no team in Finals history has ever overcome a 3-0 hole.
Of course, Doncic believes he and the Mavericks are the team to get it done. But, when asked to explain why, his answer isn’t likely to have his teammates running through walls.
“We’ve been through a lot — I believe we can do it because of the teammates I have,” Doncic said. “We have great chemistry. We’re going to stay together no matter what.”
Other than fouling out, the other hot topic relating to Doncic was his defensive effort or lack thereof, which the Celtics took full advantage of.
He’ll never be confused for a Defensive Player of the Year candidate, and he’s clearly banged up. Still, Doncic has been lackluster at best on the other end of the floor. Much like his reckless play and constant banter with the sidelines and officials, it’s only hurting the Mavericks against a deep Boston squad.
Doncic said that he needed to “help out” his teammates more in that regard. However, the question remains if he’s healthy enough to contribute on both ends of the floor.
While Doncic claimed to be “100 percent,” when pressed about possibly needing another pain-killing injection ahead of Game 4, he responded, “Probably, yeah.”
After reflection, Doncic was more thoughtful with his answers, especially in a more controlled environment. But, the hurdle in front of the Mavericks remains the same.
The only way for the Mavericks to overcome the steep hill in front of them is with a focused, controlled and reasonably healthy Doncic. Still, those hopes may not come to fruition, and it might not matter if they do.
