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Olden Polynice Calls Luka Doncic A Great Offensive Player But A ‘High School’ Defender

Los Angeles Lakers superstar Luka Doncic has been criticized for his defense for much of his career, and former NBA player Olden Polynice still doesn’t see any improvement.

By Fadeaway World · Yard Barker

Published: Monday, 12 October 2026 at 5:07 PM

Key Things to Know

Olden Polynice criticized Luka Doncic's defense, calling him a great offensive player but a high school defender.
Polynice and Byron Scott argued that an NBA team cannot win a championship without defensive effort from its superstar.
Scott stated that Doncic needs to improve as a help defender and make second and third efforts on defense.

The Story in 60 Seconds

Former NBA player Olden Polynice criticized Los Angeles Lakers superstar Luka Doncic on Byron Scott's Fast Break podcast, describing him as a high school-level defender. Polynice argued that it is impossible for a team to win an NBA championship when its primary superstar does not play capable defense.

Byron Scott agreed with Polynice's assessment, noting that Doncic must improve as a help defender and provide sustained effort. Both Scott and Polynice expressed skepticism regarding the Lakers' championship contention, pointing to overall defensive weaknesses despite the addition of center Walker Kessler.

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Olden Polynice Calls Luka Doncic A Great Offensive Player But A ‘High School’ Defender

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