Just days have passed since the blockbuster trade that sent Luka Doncic to the Los Angeles Lakers in exchange for Anthony Davis. Fans in Dallas are still reeling from the loss of their Slovenian superstar. The Dallas Mavericks have yet to play a game at home since the deal, but Klay Thompson offered his take on how the crowd might react.
Mavericks fans have expressed outrage over the trade, making their frustration clear on social media, where the franchise has seen a massive drop in followers, and outside American Airlines Center, where fans have gathered to voice their discontent.
After helping lead his team to a win over the Boston Celtics at TD Garden, Thompson shared his thoughts on the upcoming matchup against the Rockets and the mood he expects in Dallas.
“Probably a lot of heartbreak amongst the fans,” Thompson said via ESPN. “Probably some boos. But, as a professional, you have to embrace everything, and we’re paid to play this game and perform at the highest level”.
Klay Thompson #31 of the Dallas Mavericks attempts a three-point basket against the Boston Celtics during the first quarter at the TD Garden. (Brian Fluharty/Getty Images)
Thompson also acknowledged the deep connection Mavericks fans had with Doncic and emphasized the importance of delivering a win to ease their frustration.
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“I don’t know what to expect. I know Luka was so dear to every Mavs fan’s heart,” he added. “We’ve just got to win, and do it consistently, and give ourselves a chance to win the whole thing, and I think that will ease all of the fans’ pain and anger. It’s going to be weird, but that’s what we sign up for”.
Spencer Dinwiddie reflects on Doncic’s departure
Mavericks guard Spencer Dinwiddie also commented on Doncic’s exit, understanding the fans’ emotional response to losing the face of the franchise. “It shows what Luka meant to the community. It shows how much the fan base loves him. Still loves him,” Dinwiddie said, via ESPN.
He also drew a comparison between Doncic’s time in Dallas and Dirk Nowitzki’s legendary career with the Mavericks. “I think for a fan base that had Dirk for 20 years, and seemingly right when Dirk was about to retire, they got Dirk 2.0 in a sense, it’s understandable”.
Jason Kidd addresses the fans’ frustration
Mavericks head coach Jason Kidd shared his perspective on the fans’ reaction but maintained that his primary focus is on securing a win against Houston. “Things that have taken place … our sympathy goes to the fans, and [we understand] they can be upset,” Kidd said via ESPN. “But, at the same time, as a coach, the guys that I have, we have to put them in position to be successful against Houston, and that’s all I’m focused on”.
