NBA analyst Brian Windhorst claimed that Luka Dončić’s Western Conference Defensive Player of the Month nomination made more sense than any other award, as it would have been the first of his career. Although he lost the honor to Victor Wembanyama, the Slovenian topped the Western Conference Player of the Month rankings with a stellar stat line.
Why Brian Windhorst Believes Luka Dončić’s Defensive Player of the Month Nomination Is Fitting
Dončić has always struggled defensively, as he carries a heavy offensive load. When Anthony Davis was traded to the Dallas Mavericks and the Slovenian superstar was brought to the Lakers, there were fears of a defensive downfall, as a similar offensive powerhouse joined LeBron James and Austin Reaves, replacing a rim-protecting big man.
In past years, the 27-year-old was not as engaged, but that has changed this season. His defensive effort often impacts his team positively, with improved communication and a better understanding of schemes. He was nominated for the Western Conference Defensive Player of the Month after posting 37.5 points, 8.0 rebounds, 7.4 assists, 2.3 steals, and 0.7 blocks per game.
Analyst Windhorst, who was previously critical of Dončić’s defense, claimed that the honor would be more meaningful than any other, as it had never happened in his eight-year NBA career.
“Luka got nominated for defensive player of the month. Think about that. In all honesty, that’s better than winning some other award. Getting nominated for defensive player of the month, that’s never happened in this career!” he said.
The stat didn’t earn him the Defensive Player of the Month honor for March, but it did earn him the NBA Player of the Month award, while Jalen Johnson topped the Eastern Conference.
READ MORE: Luka Dončić Injury Update: How Long Will the Lakers Star Be Out After Scary Moment vs. Thunder?
Dončić has been leading the scoring in the NBA this season, recording 13 consecutive 30-point performances. He had a season-high 60-point performance, besides 40- and 50-point outings. After the Lakers’ win over the Cleveland Cavaliers, his scoring total reached 600 for March, matching a unique feat of Michael Jordan, who achieved it in March 1987.
The 27-year-old sat out the game against the Wizards due to a one-game suspension resulting from a technical foul. Now, even his honors are in jeopardy due to a hamstring injury he suffered in the recent Lakers-Thunder matchup. His team lost to the Western Conference-leading OKC, and he is set to undergo an MRI next.
If he doesn’t play at least one more game, he won’t be in contention for season-end honors and awards, which require a minimum of 65 games played.
