Copyright yardbarker
It is clear that last year’s trade took a toll on Luka’s assist and efficiency numbers. He averaged the lowest assist numbers (7.5 assists per game) and field goal percentage (43.8%) since his rookie year in the 28 games with LA. This season is off to a good start, though, as, through two games, Luka is averaging 46 points, 11.5 rebounds and 8.5 assists on 62% shooting. His visual appearance and fitness level has improved as well, as he may have taken Nico Harrison’s comments about his fitness to heart. He appears to be in much better shape and was even on the cover of Men’s Health magazine a few months ago. While he did suffer an injury to his finger and leg, he should be back soon, so it should not derail his MVP case. Voter Fatigue and Biases NBA MVP voter fatigue is a real thing. Voters often get tired of seeing the same players win MVP, causing them to vote for new winners. Players often have trouble winning the trophy three seasons in a row. In addition, former MVPs such as LeBron have had trouble winning it in later, deserving seasons, such as 2018, even if they didn’t win it the year prior. While, of course, the reigning MVP SGA is only a one-time winner, many of the expected competitors are former multi-time MVPs. Giannis Antetokounmpo, Nikola Jokic, Stephen Curry and LeBron James will all battle voter fatigue should they enter the conversation for the award. SGA, though, will battle a different problem. Basketball fans and journalists have voiced their concerns about his foul-baiting tactics. People have taken note of his exceptional skill at drawing fouls, allowing him to gain easy points at the free-throw line. This bias may make people lean away from voting for him. And for anyone who questions that, just look at James Harden in 2019. Luka Doncic is one of, if not the best, basketball players on the planet today. For him, winning the MVP award is a matter of “when,” not “if.” And with factors both on the court and in the voting ballots in his favor, he will finally receive his recognition early next year.
