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USA Today via Reuters

USA Today via Reuters

The Dallas Mavericks and Brooklyn Nets put on a showtime performance in one of the most exciting games of the season so far. The overtime thriller had it all. It was a true superstar showdown as Kevin Durant and Kyrie Irving faced the fire of Luka Doncic. However, at the end of the day, the NBA’s wonderboy produced yet another magical performance. His game-winning performance also proved Detroit Pistons legend Isiah Thomas’ words right.

Before the season began, the Brooklyn Nets were the team to watch out for. With a new ‘Big 3’ ready to take over, they seemed to have mastery on both ends of the floor. However, as the clock began their defensive anchor, Simmons struggled. Fouling out two of the first three games, his production would only be the start of their problems.

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The most shocking might be a struggling Durant. The Slim Reaper, one of the most lethal weapons in basketball, has looked like a blunt sword to start the season. Likewise, Thomas took a dig at KD, saying his time of dominance was over. And for the NBA fans, Doncic’s monster night was proof to back his criticism.

Luka Doncic exposes Kevin Durant?

A look at the numbers might show the Slim Reaper still being at his best. The 12 Time All-Star has scored over 30 points in four of the five games so far. However, according to Thomas, each of those points seems to have no significant value. Notably, he said: “He used to get 30 and that meant he dominated the game. Now his 30 is just 30.??

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An initial look at his words might make it come off as pure hate. However, the Hall of Famer’s expertise doesn’t come without solid proof. Luka Doncic’s numbers almost mirror that of Durant. However, Luka Magic had carried the Mavericks to a 2-2 record. Likewise, the basketball world was left stunned by his opening act of the season so far.

It might be difficult to see how Doncic’s 30 points are different than that of Kevin Durant. However, their enthralling matchup might just be the answer to the questions. Durant and KAI were both deadly once again, combining for over 50 points for the third consecutive game. However, in that span, the Nets have been winless. KD has scored over 30 points in each of those contests. However, his plus-minus was -58, the lowest it has ever been.

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On the other hand, Luka Doncic was able to match their fire alone with a monster of 41 points, 11 rebounds, and 14 assists triple-double. The Mavericks’ two losses have been close, both just two-point losses. The games were only close because of Doncic’s insane contributions. And Doncic’s dominance on the floor is certain with a +41 for the season so far. However, the same can’t be said for Durant and the Nets.

They have lost all four of the games in which Kevin Durant has scored over 30 points. However, blaming just Durant might not be the right way to see it. The Brooklyn offense has done its job with Kyrie Irving and KD both going mental. However, they remain the worst defensive team in the league, despite having a DPOY candidate donning their jersey. Likewise, to win such thrillers, a franchise needs to bring out its best on both ends of the court.

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Despite Thomas’ words looking right, do you the Brooklyn Nets’ season will change if Ben Simmons overcomes his struggles? Let us know your views in the comments below.