Los Angeles Lakers: Complete 2018 NBA Draft first round grades
Point Guard. International. Luka Doncic. 3. player. 79.
On the first of many trades of the night, the Dallas Mavericks ended up making the selection after a trade with the Atlanta Hawks. With the third overall pick, the Mavericks got Luka Doncic.
This move by the Mavericks looks to be a great one on paper, as Doncic is one of the most talented players in the draft at just 19-years-old. As a 6’8” player with the skills of a point guard, Doncic could be a matchup nightmare in the NBA.
Unlike some other European players, Doncic appears to be physically ready to come to the NBA and be a factor right away. The Mavericks now have an extremely talented backcourt with Dennis Smith Jr. and Doncic.
With the addition of Doncic, the Mavericks will now be focusing on adding a big man in free agency. More than likely, the Mavericks will have their eyes on Julius Randle and DeMarcus Cousins, which would both be good fits.
Getting Doncic with the third pick is certainly a good value selection by the Mavericks, and the cost to move up in order to get him wasn’t that high. Overall, great trade and a great selection by the Mavericks.