Luka Doncic is set to return to the American Airlines Center this Wednesday, marking his first appearance there since his unexpected trade from the Dallas Mavericks to the Los Angeles Lakers in February.
Since the trade, Doncic has already faced his old squad once, during a game on February 25. In that matchup, he achieved a triple-double by scoring 19 points, grabbing 15 rebounds, and dishing out 12 assists, leading the Lakers to a 107-99 victory over the Mavericks.
This upcoming game is notable as it represents Doncic’s first game back in Dallas, the city he considered home for almost seven years and where he intended to spend his entire NBA career. Doncic, who had become the cornerstone of the Mavericks, was met with massive protests from fans following his trade, despite having recently led the team to the NBA Finals.
Prior to the game, Doncic expressed mixed emotions about his return, admitting he was unsure how he would feel once back on the court in Dallas.
“Obviously, there will be a lot of emotions involved,” Doncic shared with reporters on Tuesday, according to Jovan Buha of The Athletic. “I don’t even know what to expect. I don’t know how I’m going to feel, honestly. I know I’m looking forward to being back in Dallas, obviously with the fans, teammates—ex-teammates. It’s going to be very emotional for me for sure.”
LeBron James also commented on Doncic’s return, stating his intention to support Doncic in any way needed, but emphasized that “winning would be the best solution.”
The upcoming game holds significance not just emotionally, but also in the context of the season standings. The Lakers are aiming to secure the No. 3 seed and need to win at least two of their final three games to do so. Achieving a victory in tomorrow’s game is crucial for both Doncic and his current team.
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