Luka Doncic Leads Lakers to Win Over Mavericks in Emotional Reunion

Posted : 26 February 2025

Luka Doncic led the Lakers to a 107-99 victory over his former team, the Dallas Mavericks, becoming just the third player in NBA history to record a triple-double against all 30 teams. Despite his milestone, Doncic’s postgame demeanor was more one of relief than triumph. He admitted to struggling with emotions and a lack of sleep leading up to the game, which came just weeks after his trade from Dallas to Los Angeles.

"It was a different game," he said. "Sometimes I don’t know what I was doing. And I’m just glad it’s over, honestly." His performance included 19 points, 15 rebounds, and 12 assists, but it was LeBron James who took over in the fourth quarter, scoring 16 of his 27 points to secure the win.

Facing his former teammates and coaching staff made the night an emotional challenge for Doncic, though he acknowledged that moving past it would help him in the long run. Mavericks general manager Nico Harrison was present on the sideline, but Doncic claimed not to have noticed him, though he was fully aware of the Mavericks’ bench, exchanging glances and gestures with his old teammates.

LeBron James spoke on the difficulty of the transition for Doncic, emphasizing how emotionally taxing it is to leave a team after years of dedication and growth.

Meanwhile, Mavs guard Kyrie Irving, who scored a game-high 35 points, described the matchup as "awkward as s---" but also acknowledged the fun in competing against his former teammate. Doncic reciprocated the sentiment, calling Irving his "hermano" and emphasizing their deep bond beyond basketball.

The Lakers and Mavericks are set to face off again in Dallas on April 9, a game that will likely bring its own set of emotional challenges for Doncic. The Mavericks are hopeful that Anthony Davis, who was part of the trade and is currently sidelined with an injury, will be ready to play by then.

Lakers coach JJ Redick acknowledged the strangeness of the situation, particularly with Davis receiving a tribute video and a standing ovation in the first quarter, while players like Max Christie, also included in the trade, put up solid performances for Dallas.

Redick advised embracing the emotions of the moment rather than avoiding them, recognizing that the transition will take time. Doncic echoed that sentiment, admitting that closure won’t come quickly but emphasizing that "every day is better."

Luka Doncic Leads Lakers to Win Over Mavericks in Emotional Reunion

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