22.02.2025, USA, Denver: Basketball: NBA, Hauptrunde, Denver Nuggets - Los Angeles Lakers. Luka Doncic, Guard der Los Angeles Lakers, in Aktion. Foto: David Zalubowski/AP/dpa +++ dpa-Bildfunk +++
Charles Barkley Feels Like Luka Dončić Should Also Be in the GOAT Conversation After Wonderful Display Against OKC
Luka Dončić’s performance against the Oklahoma City Thunder left fans speechless—and NBA legend Charles Barkley wasn’t shy about giving credit where it’s due.
During a post-game segment on Inside the NBA, Barkley praised the Dallas Mavericks star for his poise, control, and sheer dominance in what was arguably one of the most high-pressure games of the season. “He’s the future of the NBA,” Barkley said emphatically. “He definitely owns the Thunder. I’m sure a lot of Lakers fans doubted his abilities in big matches—he’s proving them wrong.”
The matchup against OKC wasn’t just another regular season game—it felt like a statement. Luka dropped a near triple-double, commanding every quarter with a mix of court vision, deadly stepbacks, and fearless drives to the rim. It wasn’t just how many points he put up, but how and when he did it. Luka delivered in the clutch—something Barkley believes separates great players from potential all-time legends.
“Give him a few years,” Barkley continued, “we would definitely have him in the GOAT conversation. He was made for matches of this level.”
Coming from Barkley—a Hall of Famer who played against the likes of Jordan, Magic, and Bird—that’s no small endorsement. Luka has consistently been a playoff performer, but this latest game against OKC solidified his growth as a franchise leader and big-game killer. Barkley’s comments highlight a growing sentiment among fans and analysts alike: Luka Dončić is not just good—he’s generational.
As the Mavericks continue their push through the Western Conference, one thing is clear: Luka’s legacy is only just beginning. And if Charles Barkley is right, we might be witnessing the rise of the next all-time great.
Want me to turn this into a social media post or design a quote graphic around Barkley’s statement?
