Luka Dončić: Mavs Miss Knicks' Jalen Brunson 'a Lot'; 'You Don't See That Chemistry'

As the regular season winds down, the Dallas Mavericks find themselves in danger of missing the playoffs.

While speaking to reporters after practice Tuesday, star point guard Luka Dončić said he believes the chemistry of this year's team hasn't matched that of last year's group that reached the Western Conference Finals.

When asked how much the Mavs miss point guard Jalen Brunson, who is now with the New York Knicks, Dončić responded: "A lot."

Brunson was the breakout star of Dallas' postseason run last year, and he cashed in on a four-year, $104 million deal with New York after becoming a free agent.

The 26-year-old has thrived in his new home, averaging 24.0 points and 6.2 assists to help the Knicks (46-33) clinch a playoff berth after the team did not so last season.

"I mean, amazing guy, amazing player," Dončić added about Brunson. "For sure."

At 37-42, the Mavs sit one game behind the Oklahoma City Thunder (38-41) for the final play-in tournament spot in the Western Conference. Dallas has tumbled down the standings despite acquiring eight-time All-Star point guard Kyrie Irving from the Brooklyn Nets to provide Dončić with a viable running mate.

While the pairing has produced some impressive offensive numbers, the Mavs have not played well enough on the defensive end to compete against elite teams. Dallas is giving up 113.8 points per game this season, which ranks 15th in the NBA after ranking second in the league last year by holding opponents to 104.7 points per game.

When asked if the Mavs are a confident team with three games left in the season, Dončić admitted, "No, not right now."

He went on to say, "I think you don't see that chemistry that we had before. I mean, especially last year. I think that chemistry was at the top with everybody, but you know, chemistry builds and not right away, so it's a long process."

Dončić and the Mavs will be looking to end a three-game skid when they host the Sacramento Kings (47-31) on Wednesday.