Luka Donsic didn’t try to hide his feelings when he returned to face his former team.
When Luka Doncic checked in to the American Airlines Center, he was filled with joy. But before the tip-off he sat through the video package in honor of his efforts in wearing the Dallas Mavericks colours.
This was Donsic’s first return to Dallas since a sudden trade with La Lakers. ESPN reporter Tim McMahon later claimed the trade was “broken Donsic’s heart.”
To some, this may have seemed like an exaggeration. However, seeing how Donsic was shedding tears, he saw the video package, making it very clear that he is always emotionally connected to the team in some way.
Donsic was supported by his LA Lakers teammates and wiped out tears to score 45 points against the Mavericks in a 112-97 victory.
-
Dallas MavericksDallas Mavericks
97|112
Los Angeles LakersLos Angeles Lakers

All we can do is respect Luka Donsic’s openness to his feelings before the Mavericks Lakers Contest in Dallas.
His subsequent performance was even more impressive. He scored 45 points to lead an epic 112-97 victory.
All of Doncic’s moves cheered, and the crowd didn’t try to take root in the Slovenian genius who was making the most of his fresh start at La Lakers.
Kendrick Perkins posted on X: “What a pressure relief for Luka. I’ve never seen a player show such true feelings and leave and become an assassin.”
The worst take came from former Fox and ESPN analyst Skip Bayless. He questioned Luka Donsic’s commitment to the Lakers.
He said, “If you see Luka crying before the game in a LeBron or Austin regenerative form, they say, “If you missed this badly, do you want to be here? Don’t you want to be a Laker?”
Luka Donsic’s actions in court proved his commitment to La Lakers. This was a performance that coincided with his highest total on the team.
His measured surgical performance was followed by comments from Doncic after the match.
It’s Mavericks fans who can’t move on and can’t let go. There was a “Fire Nico” chant throughout the game, even when his team was taking free throws, directed towards GM Nico Harrison.
After the game, Donsic made his stance very clear.
“I love these fans. I love this city, but it’s time to move on.”
These comments have been made in front Skip Bayless posted his take.
This was a victory experience that brought the Lakers locker room and Don Chic closer than ever before.