Luka Doncic is coming back to Dallas and it’s going to be a very special, surreal moment for the Los Angeles Lakers star.
Wednesday will mark the first time Doncic and his Lakers have played in Dallas since the blockbuster, jaw-dropping trade that changed his career forever.
Obviously, many heavy and intense emotions are tied to this game, and Doncic spoke about them.
“I don’t really know what to expect. I don’t know how I’m going to feel, honestly. I’m looking forward to being back in Dallas, obviously, with the fans, seeing my teammates — ex-teammates. It’s going to be very emotional for me, for sure,” Doncic said, per Courtside Buzz.
Luka Doncic on his return to Dallas, as a member of the Los Angeles Lakers on Wednesday night:
“I don’t really know what to expect. I don’t know how I’m going to feel, honestly. I’m looking forward to being back in Dallas, obviously, with the fans, seeing my teammates —… pic.twitter.com/QBzfrUK4TY
— Courtside Buzz (@CourtsideBuzzX) April 9, 2025
The Mavericks fanbase is still reeling from the loss of Doncic, something that no one saw coming.
In the months since the trade, it’s become clear that Doncic never desired to leave Dallas and was actually planning to be there for his entire career.
But general manager Nico Harrison had other ideas and was quietly working behind the scenes to send him away.
Unlike Harrison, Doncic isn’t seen as a villain in this situation, and so he will receive a very warm welcome from Dallas fans.
They will likely even cheer for a few of his shots, even though they will be against the Mavericks.
This will be a chance for Doncic to see his former teammates and coaching staff and remind the fans just how special he is.
It also comes at a time when Doncic is trying to secure his team’s standing in the West and set them up for a strong playoff run.
So, this game will be important for a variety of reasons, and it’ll be filled with high emotions and plenty of drama, on and off the court.
NEXT: Mavericks Are Projected To Lose Millions After Luka Doncic Trade