Famous reporters questioned the Mavericks lineup: Originally built around Doncic, not sure if it can be compatible now

ESPN famous reporter Tim Macmahon questioned the Mavericks' current lineup adaptability around the new core in the live show. Most basketball fans have gradually accepted the fact that Doncic left Dallas, but this cannot change a reality: the Mavericks' original lineup was built around Doncic.

The Slovenian superstar was once the core ball holder of the team, and Irving was paired with it as a support role. After Doncic left the team, Irving took over the heavy responsibility of holding the ball; and when the NBA champion suffered an ACL injury, the Mavericks' lack of depth in lineup was completely exposed. The team has tried to make up for this flaw in the free market, but Tim Bontemps believes it hasn't done enough.

Bontemps said: "There is only one orthodox player in their lineup. You definitely want the ball to be in his hands. If he is missing for any period of time, the team will probably have to let Cooper Flag hold the ball." Although Flag has the potential to lead the offense, he is not an ideal candidate for a team that is determined to compete for the championship. This 18-year-old rookie still needs to accumulate experience through actual combat, and there will inevitably be a lot of mistakes in the process. Tim Macmahon traced the root of the problem to Doncic, believing that the team's previous signings were all based on Doncic's technical characteristics.

"There are indeed a lot of talents in the lineup, but it is a bit awkward to match it. The signing of Clay was originally intended to open up space and cooperate with Doncic to get a lot of open three-pointers. Now, I am really not sure whether these players can be compatible."

Despite this, Harrison is still full of confidence in these players. Earlier this year's offseason, the Mavericks signed a three-year, $60 million contract with Gafford; even though Irving was in a state of recovery, he received a three-year, $119 million contract.