Gilbert Arenas Predicts Luka Dončić Will Become the Third Player in NBA History to Average a Triple-Double
Former NBA star Gilbert Arenas recently made waves with his bold prediction about Dallas Mavericks’ phenom Luka Dončić. Arenas, known for his dynamic scoring and playmaking abilities during his career, confidently declared that Dončić would join the exclusive club of players to average a triple-double over the course of a season. This prediction follows Dončić’s consistent rise to stardom and further solidifies Arenas’ belief in the young guard’s talent.
A Historic Achievement
Currently, only two players in NBA history have managed to average a triple-double for an entire season: Oscar Robertson and Russell Westbrook. Robertson was the first to do so during the 1961-62 season, setting a standard that would go unchallenged for decades. Westbrook, however, broke the record by averaging a triple-double for three consecutive seasons from 2016-2019. Westbrook’s achievement has often been considered one of the most remarkable individual feats in modern basketball.
Arenas, in his statement, sees Dončić as the next player to follow in the footsteps of these NBA legends. At just 24 years old, Dončić has already shown an uncanny ability to fill up the stat sheet in almost every category, averaging close to a triple-double in each of his first few seasons. His ability to score, rebound, and distribute the ball makes him a unique talent in the modern game. With a career that continues to break new ground, Arenas believes it is only a matter of time before Dončić puts up the numbers that cement him as the third player in NBA history to average a triple-double.
Luka Dončić’s All-Around Game
Luka Dončić’s game is built on his exceptional basketball IQ, versatility, and elite skill set. Standing at 6’7” and weighing 230 pounds, Dončić combines size and strength with a smooth, creative playing style. He is a tremendous passer, often seen making eye-popping assists that leave fans and analysts in awe. His court vision and ability to read defenses allow him to deliver pinpoint passes to teammates, regardless of their positioning on the floor.
While Dončić is known for his scoring, with multiple 40- and 50-point games under his belt, his ability to rebound and set up plays is equally impressive. Averaging close to 8 rebounds and 8 assists per game in recent seasons, Dončić has shown that he is more than just a scoring threat; he is a complete player who impacts every facet of the game. His knack for pulling down rebounds, especially on the defensive end, helps initiate fast breaks, giving him even more opportunities to assist and score.
The Case for a Triple-Double
Dončić’s stats have been steadily rising, and his all-around game is becoming even more polished. Through his first few years in the league, he has demonstrated an ability to control the game, averaging impressive numbers in scoring, assists, and rebounds. If he continues on his current trajectory and maintains his health, it’s reasonable to believe that he can eventually average a triple-double for an entire season.
One of the key factors in this prediction is Dončić’s consistency. He is regularly putting up near-triple-double numbers, and as his maturity and leadership continue to grow, his efficiency should improve as well. With the Mavericks building around him, it’s possible that Dončić will have even more opportunities to showcase his skills, making the triple-double a very achievable goal.
The Future of the NBA
Gilbert Arenas’ prediction about Luka Dončić joining the ranks of Robertson and Westbrook is more than just a bold statement; it reflects the growing consensus that Dončić has the potential to reshape the future of the NBA. His ability to dominate in multiple areas of the game could pave the way for an era where triple-doubles are more common than ever before.
In the coming seasons, the basketball world will be watching closely to see if Dončić can live up to the lofty expectations set by Arenas and others. With his work ethic, determination, and unmatched skill set, it seems inevitable that Dončić will continue to be a force to be reckoned with in the NBA, perhaps even becoming the third player in history to average a triple-double over the course of an entire season.
