Luka Doncic Leads Lakers to Victory Over Former Team in Emotional Matchup

All eyes were on Crypto.com Arena as Luka Doncic faced off against the Dallas Mavericks for the first time since his shocking trade to the Los Angeles Lakers. The blockbuster deal, which sent Anthony Davis, Max Christie, and a draft pick to Dallas, stunned the basketball world.

Mavericks GM Nico Harrison, who orchestrated the trade, watched from courtside as Lakers fans chanted, “Thank You, Nico”—mocking the move that sent their new star to Los Angeles.

Determined to prove a point, Doncic delivered a dominant performance, helping the Lakers secure their eighth straight win and climb to fourth in the Western Conference standings.

Doncic Makes NBA History in Lakers Debut Against Mavericks

Coming off a 32-point game against Denver, Doncic showed up with intensity. The five-time All-Star finished the night with 19 points, 15 rebounds, 12 assists, five steals, and five blocks, making history as the first player ever to record that stat line in a debut against a former team.

With his 81st career triple-double, Doncic became just the third player in NBA history to record a triple-double against all 30 teams, joining LeBron James and Russell Westbrook in this elite club.

Doncic on Facing His Former Team: “Closure Will Take Time”

In the post-game press conference, Doncic admitted the emotions of facing the Mavericks were still fresh.

“The closure is going to take a while, I think… It’s not ideal, but I’m glad this game is over. There were a lot of emotions, but we take it step by step, and every day gets better.”

Doncic and the Lakers will look to extend their winning streak as they prepare to face the Minnesota Timberwolves on Thursday, February 27.