Dallas Mavericks head coach Rick Carlisle “projects” draft pick into starting lineup.

During a press conference after the 2018 NBA Draft, Rick Carlisle said he sees third overall pick Luka Doncic in the starting five.

The head coach said this situation is similar to last year when the Dallas Mavericks drafted Dennis Smith Jr. ninth overall in the 2017 NBA Draft. Carlisle said “he [Dennis] started every game he was available.” With Doncic being on  Real Madrid’s roster since the young age of 13, he has had more than enough professional basketball experience, so he will be able to contribute immediately.

The back court of Smith Jr. and Doncic will be the youngest and one of the more exciting ones the NBA has seen in awhile. But, do not be surprised if you see the newest addition to the Mavericks roster playing the forward position or at least interchanging between the front court and back court.

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