Feb 25, 2025; Los Angeles, California, USA; Los Angeles Lakers guard Luka Doncic (77) dribbles the ball against Dallas Mavericks forward P.J. Washington (25) during the second half at Crypto.com Arena. Mandatory Credit: Gary A. Vasquez-Imagn Images Gary A. Vasquez-Imagn Images

Luka Doncic makes emotional admission after Mavericks-Lakers

Originally posted on Dallas Mavericks on SI
By Dustin Lewis | Last updated Feb 26, 2025 1:49 AM ET

The Dallas Mavericks lost their second straight game on Tuesday night, falling short in the first matchup against Luka Doncic since he was traded to the Los Angeles Lakers in early February. Doncic put on an absolute show, filling up the box score en route to the 81st triple-double of his professional career.

After dominating the Mavericks between the lines and chirping at GM Nico Harrison, Doncic still isn't quite over the deal that sent him to the Lakers. While speaking to the media following the contest, he admitted that it's going to take him some time to fully move on.

At the very least, Doncic is happy this chapter is behind him.

"Of course, it's is going to take a while I think... It's not ideal, but like I said, I'm glad this game is over," Doncic said. "There's a lot of emotions, but we go little by little, and every day is better."

Luka Dončić was asked if facing the Dallas Mavericks gave him closure about the trade.

"The closure is going to take a while, I think... It's not ideal, but like I said, I'm glad this game is over. There's a lot of emotions, but we go little by little, and every day is better." pic.twitter.com/cl4Wfvifc2
— Grant Afseth (@GrantAfseth) February 26, 2025

Doncic, maybe more than anyone, was caught by total surprise when Dallas sent him packing a few weeks ago. To add to the situation, Harrison and team governor Patrick Dumont seemingly took shots at him on the way out the door.

The 25-year-old got the last laugh in his initial meeting with the Mavericks, putting up 19 points, 15 rebounds, 12 assists, 3 steals, and two blocks in 35 minutes.

Doncic will make his return to Dallas on April 9 in another game that is surely to be filled with emotions.