Is Luka Doncic better than Dirk Nowitzki? Former Dallas Mavericks superstar speaks out

Dirk Nowitzki and Luka Doncic have always had a friendly bond with each other. There's also speculation about what the scenario would have been like if the two had played together for more than one season with the Dallas Mavericks. This speculation also brings a sense of comparison between both players. The latest person to weigh in on this comparison is former Mavericks star Shawn Marion.

In an interview on SiriusXM NBA Radio, Marion weighed in on the popular opinion that Luka is better than Dirk. “In terms of skill set and score, yes. I don't think that's even a question. As for Dark's accomplishments, his longevity and history, no. Dark is a seven-foot-tall assassin with a fadeaway.” Sean said so.

But as an overall package, he believes Luka is better than Dirk. Notably, Marion played five seasons in the NBA with Nowitzki in Dallas. Marion was part of the roster that brought the Dallas Mavericks their first and only NBA Championship in 2011.

It is worth mentioning that Luka himself has always admired Dirk. He said in a 2023 interview how lucky he felt to play alongside Dirk. “What he's done for Dallas is unbelievable. He's accomplished a lot, not just as a player but as a person…I think he should be an example to every player in the league. ” he said.

After getting a glimpse of the duo playing together in just one season, Mavericks owner Mark Cuban said in 2020: “Can you imagine if they were both in their prime? Oh my god. It's MJ and Scotty again.” Everyone will have an opinion on the greatness of both men, but how do they compare statistically?

Statistical comparison of Luka Doncic and Dirk Nowitzki

So far, Luka Magic's stat line has left a better impression. However, it's important to point out that the 25-year-old has only played six seasons in the NBA so far. Dirk retired from the NBA in 2019 after 21 seasons. The German phenom averaged 20.7 points and 7.5 rebounds per game during his career, shooting 47.1 percent from the field. His averages over the past few seasons have reduced this number significantly.

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Doncic has averaged 28.6 points, 8.3 assists and 8.6 rebounds per game over the past six seasons, matching Dirk's field goal percentage. But looking at Nowitzki's first six seasons, Luka still has an edge over his senior. Dirk averaged 21.3 points per game in his first six seasons.

However, an important factor to consider is that Dirk played four of these six seasons when hand checks were still legal in the NBA. Hand checks were banned in 2004, allowing for higher scores. Additionally, Dirk led the Mavericks to his first NBA championship in 2011, and that season he won the NBA Finals. He was also named MVP. Therefore, even if Luke's stat line becomes more visible, no clear conclusion can be determined based on it alone.

Which of these two players do you think is the better player? Let us know your opinion in the comments section and tell us why.

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