Luka Doncic spearheaded the Los Angeles Lakers to a 107-99 triumph over the Dallas Mavericks, marking a significant victory against his former team. Doncic, who recorded 19 points, 15 rebounds, and 12 assists, became the third player in NBA history to achieve a triple-double against every franchise. The matchup was an emotional encounter for Doncic, as he faced familiar faces from his past, including the Mavericks' management and players.
LeBron James played a pivotal role in securing the win for the Lakers by scoring 16 of his 27 points in the fourth quarter. Meanwhile, Kyrie Irving led all scorers with an impressive 35 points for the Mavericks. The game was particularly "awkward" for Irving, as he took on his former teammate Doncic. Max Christie, another player involved in the trade, also confronted the challenge of competing against former teammates.
"It was just a lot of emotions and not much sleep." – Luka Doncic
Doncic admitted to experiencing a range of emotions before the game, revealing that he did not get much sleep the night before. The Mavericks are hopeful that Anthony Davis will recover from his left adductor strain in time for their next encounter on April 9. Davis received a warm welcome back at the arena with a standing ovation following a tribute video played during the first quarter.
The Lakers organization also found themselves wrestling with mixed emotions as they welcomed Davis back into the building. Doncic noted that he did not notice Nico Harrison, the Mavericks' general manager, on the sidelines during pregame warmups.
"I can't even explain [it]. It was a different game…. Sometimes I don't know what I was doing." – Luka Doncic
For Doncic, the game was a test of emotional resilience. He candidly expressed his relief once it concluded.
"And, I'm just glad it's over, honestly." – Luka Doncic
JJ Redick, providing insights on such high-stakes and emotional games, suggested an approach of acceptance.
"You kind of just got to embrace it," – JJ Redick
Redick acknowledged that facing former teammates and teams can be inherently awkward but viewed it as a healthy process.
"It's just a little weird. It just naturally is…. It's healthy, actually, just to acknowledge it and embrace it. And then you play the game and then you never have to do that again." – JJ Redick
Despite the tension on the court, Doncic spoke warmly of his relationship with Kyrie Irving, referring to him as his "hermano" and emphasizing their bond extends beyond basketball.
"But, like I said, I'm glad this game is over. There was a lot of emotions. But we go little by little, and every day is better." – Luka Doncic
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