LOS ANGELES (AP) — Luka Doncic hit deep 3-pointers and fearlessly drove for layups. He flung a ridiculous behind-the-head assist to Austin Reaves. Doncic stared at the Dallas Mavericks’ bench a few times, yet also played with a smile on his face.
This was his first meeting with the Mavs since they traded him away, and Doncic knew he was the center of attention. The Slovenian superstar appeared ready to rise to the occasion, posting 12 points, 12 rebounds, and seven assists for the Los Angeles Lakers at halftime, closing in rapidly on his 81st career triple-double—his previous 80 having come during his tenure with Dallas.
Just 23 days after the Mavericks and the Lakers executed one of the most surprising trades in recent memory, the teams faced off in downtown Los Angeles. While the Lakers were without Anthony Davis due to injury, Doncic’s former team had to confront the reality of their last season’s scoring champion—now wearing purple and gold.
“The business of basketball can be shocking,” said Mavericks coach Jason Kidd, who remains close to Doncic. “And it was shocking to the world. But you have to move forward.” Kidd emphasized the need for Doncic to focus on performing at his highest level.
Doncic was at the center of the Lakers' attack from the start against the Mavericks. Despite missing his first 3-pointer, he quickly made his presence felt by blocking a shot on Dallas' opening possession, adding a layup, and dishing out assists, including one to LeBron James for another 3-pointer. Unfortunately, Doncic found himself receiving technical foul for protesting a non-call, which showcased just how animated he was during the game.
The excitement surrounding Doncic was palpable. After hitting back-to-back 3-pointers, which included one later disallowed for stepping out of bounds, the crowd erupted with chants of “Thank you Nico! Thank you Nico!” referring to Mavericks GM Nico Harrison, who orchestrated the trade.
Looking back at the trade, Doncic, only 25 years old, was widely regarded as untouchable, having carried the Mavericks to the NBA Finals just last season. With bold decisions, Harrison opted to move Doncic, prompting the Lakers to sacrifice their cornerstone big man to secure the younger star. The Lakers are eager to build their future around Doncic.
Coach JJ Redick expressed confidence: “He’s at his best when he has joy and playfulness and killer mentality, just perfectly living in the moment of competition.” His assessment indicated Doncic would excel against his former team, even if Davis, who fueled the Lakers during their championship run, was on the sidelines.
Davis, who impacted the franchise heavily, was absent for at least two more weeks due to the groin injury he sustained during his Mavs debut, but he still attended the game. Fans welcomed him warmly with standing ovations and showed appreciation through tribute videos, reaffirming Davis’ role as a beloved figure. Max Christie, another key player who had evolved from the Lakers’ second-round pick to starter, contributed 10 points pre-trade.
The trade evidently affected Doncic considerably, leaving him hurt and stunned. His recovery from a strained left calf had sidelined him for 6 1/2 weeks, complicate his transition to LA. Despite this, Doncic recently demonstrated his potential by leading the Lakers to emphatic wins, like their surprising blowout victory over Denver, where he racked up 32 points, 10 rebounds, seven assists, and four steals.
“He is the game plan,” Kidd remarked on Doncic's pivotal role. “He’s going to paint beautiful paintings. You’ve just got to make it tough.” This colorful characterization of Doncic as comparable to Picasso illustrated the unique artistry he brings to the game, showcasing why he remains such an integral player.
The anticipation is building for the next chapter of this story, as the Lakers are scheduled for another trade reunion with the Mavericks on April 9. Fans have already started expressing their strong opinions as they gear up for the next exciting showdown, with many Mavericks supporters vocalizing their displeasure toward Harrison and the ownership group.
This matchup showcased the realities of NBA trades—players like Doncic face unique pressures when returning to play against former teammates. History reminded us how quickly fortunes can change, not just for individuals but for franchises. The court, once dominated by past alliances, became the site of new possibilities and rivalries, painting a vivid picture for the future of this team.