There has been a lot of talk about Dallas Mavericks stars Luka Doncic and Kristaps Porzingis not being good friends. Fans and experts alike have noticed their lack of closeness, highlighted by the fact that Porzingis does not celebrate Doncic's game-winners like the rest of his teammates.

However, for ex-NBA champion James Posey, that doesn't matter. While some would argue that the two Mavs leaders need to have a close relationship to develop their chemistry, Posey emphasized that's not necessarily the case.

Case in point: Kobe Bryant and Shaquille O'Neal; Charles Barkley and Kevin Johnson; probably Michael Jordan and his Chicago Bulls teammates.

Put simply, as Posey noted, the Mavs stars–or any superstar duo or trio for that matter–do not have to be friends to succeed and win the NBA. For him, it's all about mutual respect and understanding each other's roles.

“I figure I'll let everyone in on a little secret: contrary to what people want to believe, succeeding in the NBA is not just about competing against the 29 other teams in the league. It’s also about competing against the other players in your own locker room. Most players come into the league trying to earn their keep, not necessarily trying to make friends,” Posey wrote on the Basketball News in relation to the issue about the Mavs duo.

RECOMMENDED (Article Continues Below)
Kawhi Leonard, Tyronn Lue, Luka Doncic, Los Angeles Clippers, Dallas Mavericks

Tomer Azarly ·

[NBA awards] Nikola Jokic next to Luka Doncic, Victor Wembanyama, Jalen Brunson, and Shai Gilgeous-Alexander

Brett Siegel ·

Klay Thompson in front in a Mavericks uniform. On left, Mavericks' Luka Doncic. On right, Mavericks' Kyrie Irving.

Joey Mistretta ·

While that is certainly easier said than done, especially for two young players who are still trying to make a name for themselves, it is not impossible. In the end, Luka Doncic and Kristaps Porzingis just have to agree on one ultimate goal: winning the championship for the Mavs.

It remains to be seen how the two will perform together in the playoffs (should they make it) in their second full year as teammates. Porzingis has missed a lot of time on the sidelines due to injuries, so that could be a cause of concern as the Mavs continue building around the Euro duo.