Old habits die hard in Dallas, and none proved truer than Luka Doncic’s. After winning the Western Conference Finals, he celebrated with a beer, just as he did after erupting for 73 points, calling it part of his “recovery.” What began as a lighthearted ritual soon sparked concerns about his fitness and an eventual blockbuster trade. But Doncic took it personally, and it reflected in his answer.

After another spectacular performance of 38 points, this time against the Charlotte Hornets, Luka Doncic was arguably exhausted playing 38 minutes. But besides the stat line, his dunk caught eyeballs, and a reporter casually asked whether the five-time All-NBA selection still indulges in a beer after a tough night. Doncic was clear. “No,” he told the reporter.

There won’t be another moment lik

See Full Page