The Herd with Colin Cowherd

Hoops Tonight - Why Luka Doncic & Shai Gilgeous-Alexander are my #2 & #3 players in NBA | Lakers x Thunder

Sep 12, 2025
This discussion highlights the impressive rankings of Luka Doncic and Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, examining their unique skills. An engaging debate unfolds as each player's offensive strengths and playmaking abilities are analyzed. The contrast between Doncic's scoring prowess and SGA's defensive skills adds depth to their rivalry. Listeners also get insights into Doncic's need for improvement and SGA's significant impact on the Thunder's success. The conversation illustrates their elite status in the NBA landscape.
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INSIGHT

Luka's Playmaking Beats Scoring Alone

  • Jason Timpf ranks Luka Doncic above Shai Gilgeous-Alexander because of Luka's superior offensive playmaking and advantage creation.
  • He argues Luka's scoring ceiling plus elite passmaking would have improved Oklahoma City's outcomes.
INSIGHT

Scoring Between Luka And Shai Is Comparable

  • Timpf treats scoring between Luka and Shai as a dead heat when each plays the same role.
  • He cites Luka's past 34-ppg, 62% TS season as evidence Luka can match Shai's scoring.
INSIGHT

Playmaking Gap: 168 vs 21 Ten-Assist Games

  • Luka's playmaking is quantifiably superior: 168 career 10-assist games versus Shai's 21.
  • Timpf uses this to claim Luka creates more high-quality opportunities and extra-pass looks for teammates.
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