Los Angeles Lakers secured a crucial 112–97 victory over the Dallas Mavericks on Wednesday night — but the night carried far more emotional weight than the final score suggested. For Dallas fans, it marked the long-awaited return of Luka Doncic, who suited up against his former NBA team for the first time since the blockbuster trade. Despite the bittersweet atmosphere, Doncic delivered a dominant performance in front of the fans who once cheered him as their franchise star.
Doncic has only appeared in 27 games for the Lakers, but the Slovenian star is already settling into life in Los Angeles. Speaking with reporters earlier this week, Doncic reflected on his transition and what it’s been like adjusting to a new chapter.
“It just feels like getting into a new home, you know?” Doncic told The Athletic. “Dallas was my home for seven years, almost seven years. It really felt like home. So, I’m just trying to build a new home, and I’m getting more and more comfortable.”
A tribute, then a takeover
The American Airlines Center crowd gave Doncic a heartfelt ovation before tipoff, accompanied by a tribute video that left the All-Star guard visibly emotional. Tears welled in his eyes as memories of his Dallas tenure played out on the big screen — but when the game began, Doncic channeled those emotions into one of his finest performances of the season.
Luka Doncic #77 of the Los Angeles Lakers warms up before the game against the Dallas Mavericks at American Airlines Center on April 09, 2025 in Dallas, Texas.
He finished with 45 points on 57.1 percent shooting, adding eight rebounds and six assists in a display that reminded everyone why he was once the face of the Mavericks.
see also
Lakers star Luka Doncic opens up about his mindset after watching Mavericks’ tribute video
Doncic reacts after the tribute
After the win, Doncic admitted the tribute nearly overwhelmed him. “I don’t know how I did it,” he said postgame to NBA on TNT. “When I was watching that video, I was thinking, ‘There’s no way I’m playing this game.’ But I’m happy, I love these fans, I love this city — but it’s time to move on.” His words reflected both gratitude and a readiness to turn the page with his new team.
JJ Redick praises Doncic’s resilience
Following the win that helped secure the Lakers’ postseason spot, head coach JJ Redick praised Doncic’s ability to rise above the moment. “Some of his teammates got emotional, some of the coaches got emotional… to have the emotional resolve and then go put on that kind of performance, it’s superhuman,” Redick said. “That’s who Luka is. He plays with heart — always has.”
Doncic’s steady impact since arriving in L.A. has been undeniable. His poise, leadership, and offensive explosiveness have helped stabilize a Lakers team looking to reassert itself as a legitimate playoff threat.
SurveyWhich reunion was more emotional?
Which reunion was more emotional?
already voted 0 people
As Los Angeles moves forward into the postseason, performances like Wednesday’s show exactly why the organization pushed all their chips in for Doncic — and why they believe he can lead them deep into the NBA playoffs.
