With the No. 3 pick in the 2018 NBA Draft, the Atlanta Hawks selected Luka Doncic from Real Madrid and will trade the Slovenian superstar to the Dallas Mavericks.
Doncic will be dealt to the Mavericks in exchange for the No. 5 overall pick and a future first-round pick. Oklahoma guard Trae Young was selected by the Mavericks at No. 5 and will be sent to the Hawks.
Doncic is arguably the most hyped European prospect of all time after dominating the EuroLeague, often referred to as the second-best league in the world, as a teenager. His Real Madrid team recently won the championship, with Doncic claiming both EuroLeague MVP and Final Four MVP. He also excelled on the international stage with Slovenia, showcasing rare playmaking abilities for a man of his size.
The 19-year-old may struggle adapting to the athleticism of the NBA, but he's a savant in the pick-and-roll and reads defenses as well as any prospect in the draft. His offensive game has drawn comparisons to James Harden and Manu Ginobili. He can play either of the guard positions or small forward, and, with improved shooting, can be a terror for any opposing coach to scheme against.
Luka Doncic Bio
Position: PG/SG
Team: Real Madrid
Age: 19
Height: 6-foot-8
Weight: 225 lbs.
Wingspan: N/A
Max vertical: N/A
Strengths
- Once-in-a-generation passer. Whether it's in transition or half-court set, sees the floor as well as any prospect in the last 10 years.
- Brilliant in pick-and-roll situations. Has feathery touch at the rim on drives, or reads defense perfectly for easy assist opportunities.
- Offensive game can show flashes of James Harden with ability to draw fouls and create space on stepbacks.
- Above-average rebounder for his position. Can start fast-break opportunities on his own with defensive rebounding prowess.
- Has excelled in the second-best professional league in the world, standing out as a teenager alongside grown men.
Weaknesses
- Will struggle to match up with elite athletes in the NBA. Struggles laterally to keep up with faster players when defending.
- Can struggle to beat defenders one-on-one in half-court set.
- Finishes almost primarily with right hand at rim.
- Shooting mechanics may need adjustment after connecting on 31 percent from deep last season.
