LOS ANGELES — The basketball world was shaken when, 23 days ago, the Dallas Mavericks traded Luka Doncic to the Los Angeles Lakers, in a deal that took everyone by surprise. On Tuesday night, the Mavericks will face the Lakers in their first encounter since this unexpected trade. The Lakers parted ways with Anthony Davis and Max Christie to secure Doncic, last year’s scoring leader and a five-time All-NBA team member.
At just 25, Doncic was considered an untouchable asset, especially after leading the Mavericks to the NBA Finals the previous season. However, Dallas’ general manager, Nico Harrison, saw things differently. The Lakers, on the other hand, saw the potential in acquiring a young star who could be the cornerstone of their team for years to come, despite losing a key player like Davis.
Though Doncic hasn’t commented on the upcoming game following practice, his teammates are confident in his ability to handle the situation with poise. Dorian Finney-Smith, who used to play alongside Doncic in Dallas, remarked on the team’s shared excitement. “We’ve got his back. It’s going to be a hard-fought game,” Finney-Smith said. He acknowledged that Dallas’ coach, Jason Kidd, will have his team ready to compete fiercely, so the Lakers must match their zeal.
The showdown won’t see both key players from the recent trade on the floor, as Davis is sidelined with a groin injury he sustained in his debut for the Mavericks and is expected to be out for at least two more weeks. Nonetheless, he will be present with his new team and is expected to receive an enthusiastic reception from Lakers fans, who appreciated his defensive and offensive contributions to their 2020 championship.
Doncic initially felt stunned and disappointed by the trade, compounded by his recovery from a strained left calf that kept him out for six and a half weeks. However, as he gradually integrates into the Lakers, he is beginning to find his rhythm, playing alongside LeBron James. After some initial struggles with his shooting in his first few appearances, Doncic delivered an impressive game against Denver last Saturday, scoring 32 points with 10 rebounds, seven assists, and four steals.
“I knew it was going to come,” Finney-Smith reflected. “Luka just hadn’t played for a while. He hasn’t been on the court since Christmas, and people expect him to come back with triple-doubles immediately, but it requires time. I’m just pleased he’s regaining his rhythm.”
The next reunion from the trade, set for April 9 when the Lakers visit Dallas, is anticipated to be even more intense. Mavericks fans have been vocal about their dissatisfaction with Harrison and the Dallas owners, promising an emotional atmosphere for the upcoming clash.
