Isaiah Thomas has sparked debate after linking Luka Doncic’s style to another NBA superstar’s influence.
The former All-Star suggested Doncic’s game is not entirely unique, pointing to a key figure who – according to himself – reshaped offensive basketball.
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His comments arrive as Doncic continues in the mix for the MVP race, as his performances have been central to the Lakers sitting third in the Western Conference.
Isaiah Thomas sees James Harden’s legacy on Luka Doncic
Photo by Alex Goodlett/Getty Images
Thomas shared his view on X, crediting another star for paving the way for the Slovenian guard.
“There’s no Luka if James Harden doesn’t exist… James Harden changed the game and he doesn’t get enough credit. Luka plays exactly how prime Harden played in Houston. And the you couldn’t stop NOTHING!!!! Real hoop game with manipulation of the game to go in they favor OMG,” he wrote.
Doncic is currently averaging 33.6 points, 7.8 rebounds and 8.3 assists per game, according to SofaScore. He leads the league in scoring while maintaining elite playmaking numbers.
His all-around output has kept him firmly in the MVP conversation, despite Shai Gilgeous-Alexander and Victor Wembanyama being the favourites for the award.
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Fans push back on Isaiah Thomas’ claim
Thomas’ comments quickly divided opinion among fans.
One posted: “In a big playoff game everyone is picking Luka over Harden. Luka is 2nd all time in postseason ppg behind only Michael Jordan. He carried bad Dallas rosters to the conf finals and then NBA Finals before turning 25. They have obvious similarities but they’re also quite different!”
Others highlighted differences in playing style and achievements.
“Harden never led his team to the NBA Finals. Luka did. Luka’s defense and his post scoring are way better than Harden’s will ever be. Doesn’t need to flop 24/7 to get foul calls either,” wrote a second fan.
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A third person added: “This is a lazy take. The numbers and usage are the same but are 2 completely different talents. One is a 4 level scorer the other was a great free throw shooter.”
A fourth fan also questioned the idea of influence entirely, saying: “Luka was already playing pro as a teen before Harden entered his prime. And there is footage of him doing stepbacks at 14-15 years old. He was gonna be good regardless of what Harden did. And promise you Luka wasn’t watching a ton of Harden footage or highlights lol.”
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