Los Angeles Lakers superstar Luka Dončić recently shared his insights into why scoring in the NBA feels easier compared to European leagues. On the Mind The Game podcast, Dončić emphasized how the league’s structure empowers offensive play.
> “I always said that it’s easier to score in the NBA because the rules are different. You have a lot more space, and the games are longer — 8 more minutes. Anything can happen in those 8 minutes.”
A key reason for this, according to Dončić, is the NBA’s defensive three-second violation, which prevents big men from camping in the paint. In Europe, dominant centers like Real Madrid’s Eddy Tavares — standing 7’3″ and weighing 220 pounds — can anchor the lane all game. Dončić explained:
> “It’s hard to score. Almost impossible. But in the NBA, you can’t do that because of the three-second violation.”
These rule differences create more open driving lanes, spacing, and scoring opportunities, benefiting creative offensive talents like Dončić.
Since being traded from the Dallas Mavericks to the Lakers as part of a blockbuster mid-season deal (Luka to LA, Anthony Davis to Dallas) , Dončić has continued to thrive in a system that maximizes his scoring versatility.
