Luka Doncic sat on the bench and cried all through the tribute video the Dallas Mavericks devoted to him.
Displayed as he was launched within the beginning lineup as a member of the Los Angeles Lakers, the video confirmed a plethora of memorable moments Doncic created with the franchise.
There was a lot hype surrounding Doncic’s first return to Dallas and the feelings clearly obtained to him. He requested for a towel as quickly because the tribute started and made full use of it.
The sport began with him trying utterly out of types, however he discovered the vary quickly sufficient and hit a few of his patented step again fadeaways and dished lovely no-look passes. He scored 31 factors within the first half.
Dallas followers cheered his each contact and obtained even louder when he scored, making for an extremely distinctive ambiance. As anticipated, there have been loads of “Fireplace Nico!” chants, referring to Dallas common supervisor Nico Harrison.
Mavericks gamers actually got here out with some extent to show themselves and the power from each side made for a really aggressive first quarter.
Luka obtained emotional watching his tribute video from the Mavs 🥹 pic.twitter.com/ySim9PqNUg
— NBA TV (@NBATV) April 9, 2025
What Did Doncic Imply To Mavs?
Doncic was chosen third general within the 2018 NBA Draft by the Atlanta Hawks and traded instantly to Dallas in change for fifth general decide Trae Younger and a protected 2019 first-round decide.
Since then, he went on to win 2018-19 Rookie of the Yr, was a five-time All-Star, earned five-time All-NBA honors and received the 2023-24 scoring title. From a crew perspective, he most notably led the Mavs to the NBA Finals only a season in the past.
Mavs followers fell in love with Doncic and considered him as the right successor to Dirk Nowitzki’s reign.
The commerce that despatched him to the Lakers in change for Anthony Davis and Max Christie got here as an entire shock and the fanbase now fears the franchise might by no means get better.
Davis obtained injured in his first recreation for Dallas. Not lengthy after, Kyrie Irving tore his ACL, was dominated out for the season and can miss a big chunk of 2025-26 as effectively. The championship window has considerably decreased, if it exists in any respect.
What’s At Stake For Lakers And Mavs?
For Los Angeles, home-court benefit within the first spherical remains to be accessible. At present third within the West with a 48-31 file, there are 4 groups inside a recreation of the Lakers, whereas the Minnesota Timberwolves are two video games behind.
Dallas may nonetheless doubtlessly host the 9-10 recreation within the Play-In Event. At present tenth at 38-41, the 39-40 Sacramento Kings are solely a recreation forward of the Mavericks.
